We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 accessories for your old wood-burning fireplace. They include:
We’re all aware of those wonderful woodsy aromas that snap, crackle, and pop and those fond family memories that last a lifetime. Around the fireplace, families gather, and life seems to move forward at a more subdued pace. If you’re burning wood, you can relate to this.
To make that wood-burning experience even more enjoyable, give special consideration to adding several of these accessories to your home. In no particular order, the list is broken down into two categories; “must have” and “safety and convenience” items. So, get that fire going. Sit back, relax, and consider how you might make your life a bit easier with beautiful and functional fireplace accessories. You’ll enhance the appearance of your living room, too!
MUST HAVE ITEMS FOR YOUR FIREPLACE:
- Wood Rack: What’s better than dry wood? Convenient, dry wood! Keep a couple of days’ worth of wood next to the fireplace, stove, or insert for quick and easy fuel reloading. Log racks, hoops, or a large wooden box can keep your wood conveniently located near the appliance.
- Log Carrier: You’re going to need some means to get the wood supply to the fireplace. Leather, canvas, and heavy denim log carriers will make this task much easier.
- Fire Starters: Many folks make their own by slicing wood into ½” to 2” pieces. However, others have found that fatwood is a quick and easy way to get a fire going from scratch.
- Poker: This tool will likely be your most used. Positioning and repositioning burning wood requires a well-designed and built-to-last tool. You’ll use a poker several times every day while tending a fire. Don’t skimp on quality.
- Ash Rake and Shovel: Two more tools will be used daily. Stirring up the ashes with the rake ensures all chunks of wood are thoroughly burned before removal.
- Ash Bucket: Proper burning practices include appropriately dealing with the ashes. The correct way to do this is to place the ashes in a metal ash bucket with a tight-fitting lid.
- Gloves: Invest in a good pair; you’ll be wearing them a few times each day. Look for lined gloves with high cuffs, made from heat-resistant treated leather.
- Fire Extinguisher: Just in case... it’s always a good idea to have a fire extinguisher nearby, in the kitchen and/or living room.
- Smoke/Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Strategically placed alarms are essential, especially if you’re burning wood.
- Damper: A damper is a required component for your fireplace. It opens and closes the chimney, sealing it when not in use to prevent warm air loss.
SAFETY & CONVENIENCE ITEMS FOR YOUR FIREPLACE:
- Screen: If your fireplace has a screen, make sure it’s in good repair and use it every time you have a fire. Replacement screens are readily available.
Accessories by Minuteman
- Doors: Evaluate older fireplaces for a set of doors to limit air loss and improve efficiency. Definitely worth it if your fireplace doesn't have any.
- Ash Vacuum: A good ash vacuum can make quick work of cleaning. Look for models with washable HEPA filters and adequate tank capacity.
- Grate: A grate supports the burning logs and is essential for efficient burning. Your WE LOVE FIRE® dealer will have numerous options.
- Hearth Rugs: A hearth rug is fire-resistant and adds a decorative touch while protecting the floor from sparks.
- Broom: Keep your hearth area clean with a good fireplace broom, which can sweep up ash, wood chips, and other debris.
- Bellows: Bellows blow air directly into the fire, helping it ignite quickly. They come in various styles and can add a decorative touch.
- Hearth Center: A hearth center organizes your fireplace tools and accessories, keeping them within easy reach.
- Mantel: A mantel showcases the fireplace and adds style. Depending on code requirements, a new mantel can transform your fireplace’s look.
- Andirons: Andirons hold logs in place and add a touch of elegance to your fireplace setup while improving airflow around the logs.
