![]() ![]() Imposing andirons can really come into their own with a fairly simple fireback. ![]() Do the andirons fit with any fireback being used? Is it a nice balance in terms of style? Sometimes, it is nice to choose simpler andirons or fire dogs with an imposing fireback.How imposing or unimposing do you want the andirons to be? Imposing andirons can enhance an impressive fireplace, but they also draw attention away from a less beautiful fireplace.Do the andirons match the fireplace in terms of style?.The following points may be considerations for you: There are no functional requirements for the height of fireplace andirons. 10 cm less than the indicated width of the grate (that is, the outside dimension): Narrowest available fireplace grate for andirons or fire dogs This means a minimum of 36-cm between the crossbars of the andirons, i.e. If using a grate on the fireplace andirons for your fire, at least the smallest size grate must fit on the crossbars of the andirons. This also depends on the desired size of the fire. The andiron cannot be so wide relative to the fireplace that there is hardly any space left between the pair of andirons for the fire. There is a maximum width of the andiron or fire dog as such. There is no minimum width between the andirons other than that it is a matter of taste. Building a fire on top of the ventilation grate is not ideal. Another limitation is any ventilation grate that may be present. It is important that the fire remains inside the fireplace and that any grate fits within the fireplace. The front of the andirons may protrude slightly from the fireplace, unless a lintel forms a barrier. The fire must come to at least the middle of the fireplace.Īt the maximum depth, the crossbars must fit within the fireplace. The fire is built against the rear wall of the fireplace, so that the crossbars of the andiron or fire dog are also perpendicular to the rear wall. The minimum depth is 50% of the depth of the fireplace. If the logs are too small for that, it is advisable to place a grate on the crossbars of the andirons or fire dogs.įor determining the correct size of the fireplace andirons, it is particularly the depth of the fireplace andiron that is important, or the length of the crossbars. If the logs are so large that they can be placed across both andirons, no grate is required. This creates a better draft in the fireplace, so that the fire burns better.Īndirons can be used with or without a matching grate. Another advantage is that because the fire is higher, the chimney will warm up faster when the fire is lit. This is important in the context of environmentally friendly burning. ![]() Because the fire is lifted up, air can flow under the fire, resulting in better burning of the wood. There are several advantages to using fireplace andirons or fire dogs. The Antique Fireplace Restoration Company. Expect to pay £300 to £1,000 for original cast iron andirons (based on design, exclusivity, and condition). You can pick up some from £20 to £200 at a DIY chain store. Prices depend on the complexity and the age of their design. How much should I expect to pay for firedogs (or andirons)? In some countries, they were also referred to as Moon Idols or Moon Horns. It is also finding favour on our side of the Atlantic Ocean. Firedogs (or fire dogs to give its alternative spelling) is an American English term. Firedogs or Andirons?īoth terms refer to exactly the same item. This enables for some ventilation, to stop the fire from going out too quickly. The firedogs place the horizontal section above ground. In their comparatively contemporary role, the horizontal bar is a bridge for logs and solid. Instead of supporting hog roasts, they are used to keep the fire burning and well ventilated. ![]() By the time when cast iron fireplaces rose in popularity, their modern day role changed. Along open fires, they were used to support spits for cooking meat. Firedogs have been used since the Ancient Greek times. Their use predates the Edwardian and Victorian times. They are known as andirons, or firedogs and embellish horizontal iron bars. They have one essential function as well as being an embellishment to your hearth. When you buy an antique fireplace, you see two posts on the left and right hand sides of your fireplace. Image by Carlos Velayos (via Shutterstock). More than just a flourish: firedogs help to keep the fireplace burning for as long as possible. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |