Article on how to pick quality fireplace accessories

Here is an article on Fireplace accessories and how to identify a quality fireplace accessory like a poker set or fireplace screen or doors. http://fireplacemantel.4houseandgarden.com/fireplace-accessories-for-every-household/

Here is an excerpt from the article:

“Two main factors that determine the purchase of most fireplace accessories are style and convenience. Style requires that the accessories you buy fit well with the design and look of the fireplace. Convenience refers to the ease of using the accessories. Without convenience, even the most stylish accessories are practically worthless, since you do mean to enjoy the warmth of your elegant fireplace (or do you really want a showpiece?)… ” Read more

Dressing up my Gas Log Fireplace

Q: Jason, I am looking to dress up my fireplace with a hearth fender, and maybe some decorative iron hardware. – RC

A: Dear RC, There is a new company on the online scene that sells gas log and fireplace adornments. They are called Gas Log Station and they offer fireplace screens, andirons, grates, accessories and hearth fenders for gas log set ups.

I would encourage you to get some images from a magazine of the look you are going for. I am a fan of the British Traditional look with the fireplace bumpers and andirons. – Jason

Chimney Balloon will stop the draft, but what if the fireplace is dirty or ugly?

Chimney Balloon will stop the draft, but what if the fireplace is dirty or ugly?

Fireplace Cover

Q: Jason – I too am struggling with two fireplaces built in 1970’s that are old and too costly to repair the brick seal. I can smell the draft odor and me confident now that my master bedroom temperature is fluctuating due to the fireplace. I can’t see a safer solution anywhere, “The Great Stuff” seems ok but not perfect and not safe. Once I order your Chimney Balloon how do you suggest to clean the brick inside so it ends up looking nice and where can I find a decent fireplace cover? – BMM

A: BMM, The Chimney Balloon will certainly help stop the chimney odor and the temperature fluctuations in the room, but not with the looks of the fireplace, as the Chimney Balloon is designed to be installed up out of eyesight in the flue.

You could try cleaning the bricks with a brick cleaner. Rutland Products has one that is available at Ace Hardware or fireplace shops and I have heard muriatic acid works as well. Be very careful with these cleaners though and follow their instructions closely.

If you want a more decorative touch you can go with a fireplace cover or fireplace shield as you suggested. You will likely find those online through retailers like Northline Express or Woodland Direct and they will be listed under fireplace screens. I have attached a picture of a Tiffany style fireplace shield cover that retailed for $200. There are many styles to chose from and plenty of vendors who sell them online. – Jason

Replace the fireplace glass door and fix the damper, or use a Chimney Balloon?

Replace the fireplace glass door and fix the damper, or use a Chimney Balloon?

Fireplace Brass

This is an interesting post in Google groups in which a fellow used a Chimney Balloon to solve 2 problems at once. http://groups.google.com/group/alt.home.repair/browse_thread/thread/37116a6eda8bd6d1?hl=en

Q: I am considering fabricating some doors and frame for my fireplace but i am having a hard time finding just the glass..googling for fireplace door glass brings up complete doors..any help would be appreciated – CJ

A: My kids accidentally broke the glass on my fireplace glass door and I looked around at glass shops for a replacement. I didn’t realize how bad my damper was until those doors were out. I ended up going a less expensive route and getting a Chimney Balloon to plug the fireplace
chimney flue.

This solved the bad damper and as for the glass doors I just removed them and put a candelabra in the hearth.I never used the fireplace much anyway, it made my home feel colder when I used it anyway. The only comfy spot was right in front of it. – GJ