by Chris Nycum

Created on: September 23, 2008   Last Updated: September 25, 2008

There is nothing like a cozy fire in that hearth to warm up a chilly night. Many of us own or rent a home or apartment that offers this option. In fact it may have been one of the selling points that attracted you to that particular home in the first place. But what about the naysayer that insists that fireplaces are ugly, energy inefficient and just plain drafty? Well there is an answer to these downsides, fireplace doors and fireplace screens.

There are many advantages to installing fireplace doors. First and foremost they save energy. By sealing off the firebox when not in use you do not have your heating or air conditioning literally going up the chimney. They also prevent those drafts from coming in. Many of the fireplace door frames are insulated as well. Fireplace door glass is necessarily very thick and tempered to prevent breakage so it also provides good insulation. Another positive is they provide a much safer environment. With a fireplace door and screen properly installed the chances of embers or hot ash entering the room is much lower than without. Those of us with small children can also appreciate the buffer it gives us to protect them from a burn. Lastly, fireplace doors can make the hearth, fireplace and room look much more complete, stylish, useful and clean.

Now that you are set on the path to having a fireplace door and screen installed just what kind of choices are out there? The range of materials and styles is virtually endless. A quick internet search for fireplace doors will yield you thousands of results. You will find that for the most part the frame door hardware is made of a solid metal alloy or an alloy with another coating or plating for the finish. These finishes can be brass, bronze, cast iron or virtually any metal color or texture you may want. The glass doors can be bi-fold, dual swing or sliding and can be made of differing qualities of glass depending on how much you want spend. Screens can vary in size, finish and arrangement as well. Styles for both the doors and screens are too numerous to list. Whether you are looking for sleek modern lines or a more antique style to complement your room you will no doubt be able to find a door and screen to fit both your budget and design. Got an odd shaped or unique hearth? You can also order custom fireplace doors that are manufactured to your specifications.

Installation of fireplace doors and screens can be an easy and inexpensive way to spruce up that tired old hearth and create a unique centerpiece in the room. So enjoy that cozy fire in style and ease!

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