Fireplace Screen Buying Guide

The crackle and glow of a warm fireplace can be very enticing, but sometimes a fire will send sparks of the non-romantic kind flying through the room. Protecting your carpet, date, or spouse from errant sparks can be as simple as buying a proper fireplace screen. Here are a few ideas on what to look for when you go fireplace screen shopping.

1. Fireplace screens are typically constructed with either mesh or glass panels. A mesh fireplace screen will provide reasonably good protection against sparks while still permitting heat to circulate around the room. Glass fireplace screens will give great coverage from sparks, but will also keep in much of the heat that can make a fireplace so enjoyable. 2. Fireplace screens can come in single panel design or multiple hinged panels. A single panel is easy to move and use. Hinged fireplace screens can come in three or four panel designs that fold inward toward the fireplace, like the opposite of a painted triptych you might see used for religious iconography. The hinged sides allow your fireplace screen to fit snugly for maximum protection.

3. Measuring your fireplace is the first thing you should do before even looking for fireplace screens. If not properly sized, a fireplace screen won't suit the purpose for which you bought it. Use a tape measure to get the exact measurements of your fireplace.

• If you buy a single panel fireplace screen, it only needs to match or slightly exceed your measurements.
• If you buy a multi-panel fireplace screen, it's best to purchase one 10 to 12 inches wider and 3 to 5 inches higher than your fireplace since the hinges will permit less coverage than the true size of your fireplace screen.

4. A fireplace screen is a very functional item, but it's also important to keep up appearances. Look for a fireplace screen that suits your home. Fireplace screens come in a variety of designs, from antique to traditional to contemporary. Decorative fireplace screens can also offer beautiful artwork or stained glass images.

5. Remember that buying a fireplace screen isn't enough to guarantee complete fireplace safety. Proper ventilation and regular checks of your smoke detectors will help ensure ongoing enjoyment of your fireplace for years to come.