There are many different types of fireplace screens which marry function with design to produce beautiful items which also safeguard the hearth.

A safe fireplace screen incorporates several features. Although it would seem obvious, fireplace screens should be fireproof. A person should always check to make sure that the fireplace screen he/she can’t live without is also fire retardant. Many unique fireplace screens can be discovered at antique shops. If they can’t be fire treated, then fireplace screens bought in such places should be backed up with other screens or doors which protect against fire hazards.

Stability is another important feature for fireplace screens. They should stand up, not lean against the fireplace opening. The base of a fireplace screen needs to be wide enough to provide a firm and dependable anchor. Fireplace screens should also provide full coverage for the fireplace opening. If the fireplace screen is not going to sit flush against the opening then it should have sides which bend back to catch any errant sparks. Solid fireplace screens of treated wood or glass provide optimum coverage as do wire fireplace screens if the mesh is sufficiently fine.

Before going out to buy a fireplace screen, make specific measurements of the opening to be covered. Calculate the measurements to the nearest sixteenth and remember to measure not just the top and/or bottom but the widest portion of the opening as well. Pictures of the fireplace can also be helpful in deciding on a final purchase.

Another important but many times overlooked component of buying the proper fireplace screen is knowing what kind of fireplace the screen will protect. Fireplaces are generally masonry but they may also be constructed of prefabricated metal. A hands and knees inspection of the fireplace interior will yield the answer. The inside of a masonry fireplace will be brick. The inside of a prefab fireplace will consist of metal. A prefab interior may require special accessories including a special fireplace screen. If such is the case, take additional pictures of the fireplace interior and write down any identifying information such as a manufacturer name and model numbers.

Still, fireplace safety includes many practices other than having an effective fireplace screen. Keep the area around the fireplace free of debris and never place too many logs on the grate. The best fireplace screen may not be able to withstand a tumble of burning logs. Place a fire extinguisher close to the fireplace and store extra wood away from the fireplace itself. Never, never leave a burning fire unattended. Make sure the chimney is free of build up and have it inspected by a chimney cleaning professional at least once a year.