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The metal rack on which you
arrange the logs is called a fireplace grate.
The focal point of almost any home is the fireplace. You want to
purchase fireplace accessories that will blend well with the overall
décor of the home and suit your personal sense of style. The metal
rack on which you arrange the logs is called a fireplace grate. The
grate enables the fire to pull in the air necessary to maintain a
good draft and prevents smoke from entering the room.
Types of Fireplace Grates
Steel bar and cast iron are the most common materials used for
fireplace grates. Grates made from steel bar should be used for wood
and not coal, as the coal will slip through the wide bars. Both
steel bar and cast iron fireplace grates work for burring wood as
they can hold the embers on the grate. Cast iron grates are longer
lasting than steel ones. You can also purchase grate heaters which
will blow hot air when heated. They are tubular and hollow.
- Steel Bar Grates
These grates have widely spaced bars which are rather thick. Those
with thicker bars will most likely last longer. Light duty grates
are also available for those who only use their fireplaces
occasionally. A middle to high grade grate should be purchased if
the fireplace is used more often. Soft woods can add stress to the
grate so the use of hard woods is recommended. You would want to
purchase the thickest and highest grate possible for a fireplace
that receives daily use.
- Cast Iron Grates
These grates have small gaps in the bottom which allow wood chunks
and coal to remain on the grate longer. You will want to pick a cast
iron grate based upon your fireplace usage patterns, just as with a
steel grate. The more you use the fireplace the heaver grate you
will need.
- Grate Heaters
These hollow tubes will blow air when they are heated. The grate
heaters tend to function more efficiently the more they cost. These
grates feature thermostats that control the fans, turning them off
once the tubing is hot.
You want to purchase a high quality fireplace grate to get long life
of use from it. It also helps to have a properly functioning chimney
which keeps moisture from the firebox to prevent the grate from rusting.
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