Hearth Accessories

A fire grate supports the logs in your fireplace and allows the air to circulate underneath for better combustion. A heavy, solidly build fire grate will serve you for many years. An alternative to a fire grate is a set of andirons, sometime called firedogs. The L-shaped metal supports cradle logs laid across their horizontal bars. Vertical supports - usually highly decorative - keep the logs from rolling out onto the hearth. Andirons come in a variety of styles and finishes. Fenders also called "rails". Fenders are foot rests set on the hearth across the front of the firebox. People used them to keep logs from rolling into the hearth. Fenders can be very decorative and bring an element of excitement to the room. Set of bellows can wake up a dying fire with a few quick puffs of air. If you have a fireplace with a gas starter - fancy gas keys look attractive hanging on a hook by your fireplace.