Decorative fireplace screens perform multiple functions in a home – these do not only serve a decorative purpose to add to the aesthetic value of an area, they also provide a safety barrier to protect room occupants from excessive heat, ash and sparks. Before buying one, here are some important features to consider:
Size
Size is an important feature that many buyers often overlook because they are distracted by the variety of styles and designs available. Size plays a key role in ensuring that the screen performs its functions well. In general, fireplace screens should overlap the edges of the fireplace by at least 1 inch on the sides and the top for single panel types. Folding screens, however, have to be several inches higher than the opening of the fireplace to ensure correct balance and stability.
Photo Credit: Flickr MasonsChimneyService
To get the right fit, measure the edges or opening of the fireplace and record the dimensions. Use this as a guide to get the right fit. If the screen is too small, it will not only fail in its function, it will also appear out of place. The same is true with a screen that is too wide or tall.
To be on the safe side, always refer to the label that comes with the product. Labels often indicate the size of the fireplace that the screen is made for. This is assurance that you are, indeed, buying the right size.
Material
The type of material the screen is made of affects how much heat is released and circulated around the room. Decorative fireplace screens made from wire mesh are excellent choices for rooms that require lots of heat and sufficient protection against sparks.
Glass screens, on the other hand, offer a more significant control over the amount of heat released from the fireplace. The glass panel also provides a more effective barrier against sparks. Glass also prevents airflow in case the fireplace is not used. The downside is that it could crack if it is located too close to the mouth of the fireplace. Mesh, on the other hand, will not crack although it might lose its color over time. It also allows for a more efficient airflow.
Type
Screens come in various shapes and sizes. In terms of type, however, they usually come in single or multi-panel designs. Single panels offer a full, unobtrusive view of the fire while multi-panels might distort the sight a bit. Multi-panels, however, could be used for unusually-shaped or odd-sized fireplaces. Either one is a good match to a fireplace depending on its style and design, so personal preference will usually influence the final choice.
Function
One key thing to remember is that screens that are designed for decorative purposes are not always functional and thus may not be as effective in blocking hot embers and sparks that might fly from the fireplace. Most homes put decorative screens during summer or spring when fireplaces are not in use. However, it is possible to find a good match between purpose and style. Many decorative fireplace screens are designed to meet the best elements of both function and design.