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Fireplace tools are almost as necessary as the type of fuel used and the fireplace itself. These tools serve a wide variety of purposes and make the task of starting, stoking, and extinguishing a fire a great deal easier. Furthermore, tools make the unsavory task of cleaning the fireplace even easier and much less messy to successfully complete. Finally, including fireplace tools in your fireplace design is a great way to add unique aspects to your home and there are available in all sorts of style and designs.
The first thing to look for in buying fireplace tools is the quality of the pieces. Keep in mind that these tools are the link between you and white hot ashes, so you want as much protection as possible. Furthermore, these tools should be able to perform the task without bending or breaking, so they should be made of strong materials. Look for tools made of iron, brass, or other sturdy metals. Also, all fireplace tools should have some sort of protective material on the handles to prevent you from scorching or burning your hands. The second thing you should look for in buying fireplace tools is their purpose. If you have a wood burning fireplace or stove, consider using tools such as a blow poke or a set of bellows to get the flame going without a great deal of fuss. However, these tools are not necessary for fireplaces that use corn kernels or wood pellets as their primary source of fuel. Furthermore, pokers and associated tools may not be needed, but cleaning tools are critical. Look to hearth brooms or brushes to keep the hearth area free of ashes or soot in addition to a shovel to remove the byproducts and a bucket for easy clean up. These fireplace tools should be made of metal in case any hot ashes are included, since plastic can melt and wood can burn. Also, consider fireplace tools that will provide you with protection from the hot embers and flames of the fire. These tools, including screens and protective doors serve a purpose in addition to the design aspect they add to the room. There are countless designs and styles of both screens and fireplace doors, so you are sure to find a specific model that fits best into your design plan and budget. If you are looking a more permanent solution to your protection problems, consider fireplace doors that can be opened and shut in order to keep the flames safely in the firebox. Otherwise, turn to temporary fireplace tools like fire screens that can be easily moved when necessary. Finally, other fireplace tools include storage boxes and devices for wood, wood pellets, or corn kernels. These storage tools are great for keeping your fuel dry and on hand at all times. Dry fuel not only burns more efficiently, but also burns cleaner and does not produce as much smoke and soot as damp fuel. Look to these types of fireplace tools, including slings for carrying logs and boxes to keep lightered sticks close at hand.
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