Fireplace screens are essential safety accessories for any home with a fireplace. Not only do they prevent dangerous sparks and embers from escaping the firebox, but they also help protect children and pets. This complete buying guide will cover everything you need to know about choosing the perfect fireplace screen.
What is a Fireplace Screen?
A fireplace screen is a metal frame, usually rectangular in shape, that is placed in front of the fireplace opening. Fireplace screens may be constructed of durable woven wire mesh, individual metal rods, or tempered glass panels. They serve several important purposes:
- Contain sparks and embers within the firebox to prevent fires
- Create a barrier between the fire and children/pets for safety
- Allow heat circulation while reducing drafts
- Provide an attractive decorative element to the fireplace
The fire screen was developed early in the 19th century to prevent sparks from flying into the room, and it also has been ornamented and shaped to serve decorative as well as functional purposes.
Fireplace screens are available in a variety of different materials, sizes, and styles to coordinate with any décor. They are an essential addition for homes with wood-burning fireplaces.
Benefits of Using a Fireplace Screen
There are many good reasons to use a fireplace screen:
Fire Safety
The number one benefit is enhanced fire safety. Fireplace screens contain sparks and rolling logs within the fireplace to prevent fires. Screens dramatically reduce the chances of an errant ember landing on furnishings or flooring and starting a dangerous fire.
Child & Pet Safety
Screens also create a physical barrier between children/pets and an open flame. Little fingers getting too close can result in serious burns. Curious pets may also be injured by getting too close. A secure screen reduces these risks substantially.
Heat Circulation
Fireplace screens allow convection heat from the fireplace to circulate into the room while reducing cold drafts. This helps enhance heating efficiency while the fireplace is in use.
Decor
Lastly, a fireplace screen can provide attractive decorative flair. Stylish options are available to coordinate with any décor and enhance the room’s aesthetics.
When is a Fireplace Screen Required?
Fireplace screens are always recommended whenever a fireplace is in use. Many homeowners choose to leave screens installed year round for decorative purposes and convenience.
Screens are required by code in the following situations:
- In spaces accessible by small children, like nurseries or playrooms
- For prefabricated fireplaces per the manufacturer’s instructions
- For factory-built wood stoves per the manufacturer instructions
- In condominiums and multi-family dwellings per local fire codes
Check your local regulations to determine if fireplace screens are mandated in your area. Many municipalities and associations require them as a fire safety precaution.
What to Look for When Buying a Screen
There are a few important things to evaluate when shopping for a new fireplace screen:
Material
The frame and panel material should be metal to withstand high temperatures. Steel, iron, and brass are common choices. Glass panel screens feature a heat-resistant tempered glass panel.
Mesh Size
Woven mesh screens come in different mesh sizes. Larger openings (1/4” mesh) maximize fire visibility while smaller openings (1/8” mesh) contain more sparks. Choose accordingly.
Size
Measure your fireplace opening carefully. The screen should extend 2” wider and 1” taller to fully cover the opening. Custom sizing may be required for arched openings.
Design
Available in single panel or multi-panel folding screens. Also screens with doors to allow fire access. Styles range from simple black mesh to ornate metalwork.
Weight
Check the screen’s weight rating and purchase an appropriately sturdy model if small children/pets will be present. Medium to heavy weight screens are most secure.
Frame Depth
Deeper frames provide more protection. At least 2” deep is recommended, or 4”+ for screens intended to deter pets.
Types of Fireplace Screens
There are a few basic types of fireplace screens to choose from:
Single Panel Screens
The most common style, single panel screens feature one solid panel that covers the entire fireplace opening. These offer a clean appearance and maximum spark protection.
Multi-Panel Folding Screens
Folding screens have two or more panels that fold in a zigzag or bi-fold fashion. When fully extended, the panels completely cover the opening. Folding the panels back allows for fire access.
Fireplace Screens With Doors
These feature panel screens with a set of doors in the middle that open and close to access the fireplace. The doors allow adding logs or poking the fire without removing the screen.
Glass Panel Screens
Screens with a single tempered glass panel offer unobstructed fire viewing without mesh. The glass helps contain sparks and prevents direct contact with the fire.
How to Measure for a Fireplace Screen
Measuring accurately ensures finding a properly fitting screen for your fireplace opening. Follow these steps:
1. Measure the Height
Measure from the base of the fireplace opening to the top. For arched openings, measure at the center and both sides.
2. Measure the Width
Measure across the front of the fireplace opening from side to side.
3. Add Overlap
Add 2″ to the width measurement and 1″ to the height measurement to allow for adequate overlap.
4. Check for Obstructions
Account for any mantel legs, surround trim, or other potential obstructions that may interfere with screen placement.
5. Order Your Screen
Use the final height and width measurements to find a screen that will properly fit your fireplace.
Having the exact dimensions of your opening makes finding the perfect fireplace screen quick and easy.
Additional Safety Tips for Open Fireplaces
While fireplace screens provide essential protection for open fireplaces, there are other safety steps that should be followed as well:
- Always use a metal grate or andirons to elevate burning logs
- Have your chimney cleaned annually to reduce creosote buildup
- Extinguish the fire completely before leaving the room
- Store matches, lighters, and fire starters out of children’s reach
- Never leave children or pets unattended near a hot fireplace
- Avoid burning trash or chemically treated wood
Following these tips, in addition to using a secure fireplace screen, will help maximize safety while enjoying cozy fires.
Features to Look for When Buying a Fireplace Screen
Heavy-Duty Construction
Look for sturdy steel or iron frames with welded joints (not screws/bolts). Thicker wire mesh and tempered glass are also best.
Fold-Down Panels
Multi-panel screens that fold down flat offer easier access to the firebox.
Heat-Resistant Finish
High-temp powdercoat paint helps screens withstand heat. Avoid screens with plastic parts near the fire.
Large Mesh Overlap
Mesh screens with wide vertical bars allow more heat circulation while containing sparks.
Tight Mesh Weave
Small mesh openings (1/8″ or 3/16″) block more embers but reduce visibility.
Decorative Details
Opt for a screen with details like metal scrollwork to enhance your room’s look.
Easy-Grip Pulls
Convenient handles make opening/closing folding screens a breeze.
Secure Mounting
Look for sturdy stands or mounting brackets to keep screens firmly in place.
Fireplace Screen Materials
Fireplace screens are constructed from durable materials designed to withstand high temperatures. The most common options include:
Steel
Sturdy carbon steel or stainless steel are common. Stainless has better corrosion resistance. Look for powder-coated finishes.
Iron
Wrought iron and cast iron have excellent heat tolerance and are very durable for long-lasting use.
Brass
Brass fireplace screens develop a patina but provide style. Brass retains/conducts heat well. Screens often feature brass accents.
Bronze
Typically an alloy of copper, tin, and zinc—bronze ages gracefully while retaining its strength.
Tempered Glass
Specially treated to withstand rapid heating/cooling without breaking, tempered glass is an elegant alternative to mesh.
Metal mesh screens allow air circulation while glass panels provide an unobstructed fire view—decide which is more important when choosing materials.
Single Panel Fireplace Screens
Single panel screens offer clean lines and maximum spark protection. Here are some top options:
Black Sheet Metal Screen
Simple and inexpensive black painted screens fit most fireplaces. Galvanized steel mesh contains sparks.
Arch Top Fireplace Screen
The arched top profile complements arched openings. Available in black, bronze, brass, and more.
Scrollwork Fireplace Screens
Intricate scrolled metalwork ups the elegance factor. Iron or bronze scroll screens look gorgeous.
Glass Fireplace Screen
A tempered glass panel reduces sparks while providing the most unobstructed fire view.
Decorative Fireplace Screens
Choose from nature scenes, floral designs, classic lattice, and more decorative etched screens for added flair.
Black Wrought Iron Screen
Wrought iron screens with powdercoated finish offer rugged durability with minimalist style.
Pick a simple screen finish like matte black that matches any decor, or make a dramatic statement with an elegant glass or metalwork panel.
Folding Fireplace Screens
Folding multi-panel screens offer versatile protection. Top choices include:
Bi-fold Screens
Bi-fold screens have two panels that fold in the center for quick access to the fireplace.
Triple-fold Screens
Three panel folding screens provide excellent coverage while still allowing easy fire maintenance.
Four Panel Fireplace Screens
Four panel screens fold up accordion style. They offer the most flexible access and coverage.
Arched Folding Screens
Arched screens with curved tops elegantly complement arched masonry fireplace openings.
Decorative Folding Screens
Select etched nature scenes, floral patterns, or wildlife designs to finish the look.
Folding screens tuck away neatly when not in use. They give more access to the fire than single panel options.
Fireplace Screens With Doors
Handy fireplace screens with built-in doors make it easy to tend to the fire without moving the screen. Popular styles include:
Single Door Screens
A centered door panel allows you to open the middle of the screen while keeping the rest securely in place.
Double Door Screens
Two doors give the option of accessing different sides of the firebox through the screen.
Arched Door Screens
Arched screens with matching arched doors beautifully accentuate arched masonry fireplaces.
Decorative Door Screens
Etched glass or metal door panels let you add decorative flair while accessing the fire safely.
Black Steel Door Screen
Heavy-duty steel mesh doors with powdercoated finish offer access behind a sturdy protective barrier.
Door screens streamline adding kindling and logs without fully removing the protective screen.
Direct Vent Fireplace Screen Options
Direct vent fireplaces require specialized screens to allow for venting while offering protection:
Top Vent Screen
Screens with a cutout along the top accommodate horizontal vents while still covering the opening below.
Screen Rod Extensions
Extending the top screen rod above the vent opening allows for coverage underneath while keeping the vent unobstructed.
Glass Screens
Glass panels enable wall-mounted vents while preventing direct fireplace access.
While a bit trickier, properly fitted screens can accommodate direct vent fireplaces for safety.
Custom Fireplace Screens
For fireplaces with unusually large, arched, or uniquely shaped openings, custom screens may be required:
Order Custom Size
Many fireplace screen companies will make screens to your exact specifications upon request. Provide detailed measurements for an ideal fit.
Work With an Ironworks Shop
Local ironworks businesses can fabricate one-of-a-kind screens from scratch to your specifications. Get creative!
Don’t settle for an improperly-sized screen. Get measurements accurate and have a screen custom made to fit properly.
Child Safety Fireplace Screens
Child safety fireplace screens help protect kids and deter pets. Look for:
Taller Screens
Extra tall screens measuring 38 – 40″ high make it harder for little ones to reach over.
Deeper Frames
Choose screens with 3 – 5″ deep frames to keep small hands farther from fire.
Heavy Screens
Substantial screens over 30 pounds are difficult to push over or move.
Safety Bars
Horizontal safety bars further prevent kids from climbing on screens.
Take height, weight, depth, and other factors into account if child safety is a primary concern.
Summer Fireplace Screens
Decorative summer fireplace screens cover the firebox when not in use:
Sheet Metal Screens
Inexpensive flat black sheet metal screens simply cover the opening.
Hinged Summer Screens
Hinged wire mesh screens can flip down to allow easy fireplace access.
Accent Screens
Decorative etched glass and metal screens provide elegant seasonal coverage.
Louvered Screens
Adjustable wood louvered screens offer a rustic way to cover the fireplace in warmer months.
Copper Fireplace Screens
Copper screens develop a unique patina. They provide accent color when not in use.
Select screens offer seasonal protection and decoration when your fireplace isn’t in use.
Fireplace Screen Mounting Options
Proper mounting keeps screens securely in place. Screen mounting options include:
Hearth Mounting
Screens designed to stand freely on the fireplace hearth. Ensure stability.
Interior Ledge Mount
Mounted on an inner ledge or lip around the inside of the firebox opening.
Exterior Ledge Mount
Screens that mount using the outer façade ledge around the fireplace opening.
Screen Rods
Rods mount across the top of the opening to hang screens from above.
Sturdy Frames and Stands
Freestanding screens rely on weighted bases or sturdy frame stands to stay upright.
Choose mounting method based on your fireplace construction and hearth configuration.
Where to Buy Fireplace Screens
Quality fireplace screens are available from a variety of reliable sources, including:
- Fireplace and hearth specialty stores
- Hardware stores
- Home improvement stores
- Online merchants specializing in hearth products
- Direct from fireplace screen manufacturers
- Ironwork and metal fabrication shops for custom screens
Be sure to accurately measure your fireplace opening before shopping. This will allow you to acquire a properly fitting screen the first time.
Key Takeaways
- Fireplace screens contain dangerous sparks and provide a safety barrier for kids and pets. They should be used anytime a fireplace is burning.
- Carefully measure the fireplace opening, allowing for overlap, to get accurate dimensions for buying the right sized screen.
- Choose between basic mesh screens, folding screens, screens with doors, and glass panel screens depending on needs and style preference.
- Well-made steel, iron, or brass screens supported by sturdy stands or mounting brackets provide safety and longevity.
- Take other fireplace safety precautions as well, but always use a fireplace screen to maximize protection around an open flame.
Investing in a quality fireplace screen is one of the wisest and most affordable ways to protect your home and family. With so many excellent screens to choose from, you can easily find the perfect option to match your fireplace decor. Stay warm and stay safe!
