Fireplace Designs
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When Selecting a Fireplace Screen, Think Safety First
If you are fortunate enough to have a fireplace in your home, safety should be one of the first things on your mind. While you are relaxing in front of those crackling flames, the last thing you want to worry about is a stray spark landing on your carpeting or on a family member. This is why fireplace screens have become a mainstay for all kinds of fireplaces today. And the good news is that not only can you enjoy the safety of your fireplace screen, but with the plethora of designs and styles in screens today, you can enjoy the beauty of one as well.
Functionality
Before you head out to shop for a fireplace screen, you need to consider the current purpose of your fireplace. Do you enjoy a roaring fire for its beauty or for its warmth? This will help you to determine the type of fireplace screen that will work best for you. If ambiance is your prime motive in lighting a fire, a glass screen that completely encloses the flame might be the safest choice. On the other hand, if you use your fireplace as a source of heat in a particular room during the winter months, a mesh fireplace screen might be a more appropriate choice for you. These metal mesh designs can catch stray sparks while they allow heat to escape.
Safety
Since safety is an important component of the fireplace screen that you purchase, there are certain considerations that should be kept in mind here as well. For example, if you have children or pets, you probably want to look for a screen that will fit tightly across your hearth and will not be too easy to open or remove by curious youngsters. There are also screens that can fit completely around your hearth to avoid bumped heads and knees on the hard stone or tile surface. This will protect little ones from the flames as well.
Style
Yes, style will most definitely come into play when shopping for your fireplace screen. In fact, you can easily update the look of your fireplace simply by replacing this accessory with an updated model. There are plenty of designs in fireplace screens available, so take the time to shop around and find one that will suit the rest of your home décor beautifully.
Function, safety and style are all of the factors that should be considered when you are purchasing a fireplace screen. This will ensure that the accessory that you choose will fit your taste and lifestyle for many years to come.
| Kerry Gibbs is an interior designer in Phoenix, Arizona.
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