Fireplace Tools - Select the Best!

In spite of the many innovations in household heating, the good old wood fireplace continues to be incorporated into living room designs. The beautiful fireplace appears to be here to stay and along with it, fireplace tools. The fireplace tool set serves the dual function of being a useful and purposeful set of tools as well as being an embellishment. A fireplace tool can be made of brass, steel, bronze, iron and a few other materials, and a set of these tools is primarily made up of a shovel, poker broom tongs, brush, stand and screen.

A shovel is used to remove ash and embers from the hearth. It has a long rod which provides a good grip at the handle and a curved metal blade on the end that comes in contact with the fire.

A poker is a thin sturdy metal rod with an insulated handle and two prongs at the other end, and is used for stoking the fire.

The brush and broom have similar functions. The brush has a short wooden handle and thick iron or bronze bristles. It is used to remove ash and debris inside and around the hearth. This type of brush is effective for its purpose and is very safe to use. The broom has heat resistant bristles that are a little longer than the ones on the brush, the broom handle is also longer as compared to that of the brush and effectively removes debris that is stuck to the hearth or crate.

Tongs are one of the most utilized tool, they are used to place, remove or reposition logs, rescue items that have accidentally entered the fire and to stir the fire.

The stand is used to hold all the fireplace tools in an orderly manner. It is tall enough to carry all the pieces off the ground and has a general shape and finish that is attractive. The stand finish is made to match with the tools in the set particularly when they have all been cleaned up after use.

The fireplace screen stops ash and sparks from flying out from the hearth while keeping pets and children safe from the fire. The screen can be made from steel, iron, bronze, brass and even silver. It is also very decorative, and enhances the beauty of the fireplace.

The tools must function in their fire maintenance roll, but because they are usually permanently stationed at the fireplace, their roll of beautifying the fireplace designs should be observed. Brass fireplace tools are the most traditional. Their demand is constant and they grace fireplace mantels in rooms with decor they can compliment. Solid brass sets are usually the most expensive, so to cut costs, they are sometimes made with steel shafts and then sheathed with brass tubing.

Iron fireplace tools are also popular, particularly with the more modern casual type of interior decoration. These tools go great with electric fireplaces, even if they are just for looks. They present a less refined look and can be made by machine or by hand with stamped patterns and decorations. Some even have brass handles, combining the rich beautiful effect of brass with the strength and durability of iron.

Buy the Individual Tool or the Whole Fireplace Tool Set

The decision to purchase a whole set or just the individual tools that one requires, depends on the usage of the tools.  If the whole set is not desired, the chosen pieces can be stored on hooks near the fireplace.  Another option is a smaller stand that comprises a poker, shovel and a broom.  When purchasing a tool, the strength of the tool can be examined by firmly holding the top and bottom of the tool and gently twisting the tool.  Any movement felt shows weakness that will manifest itself in loose handles over time with use.

After consideration of the materials used and the look of the finished product, the selection of a set of fireplace tools requires the further selection of its size.  These tools are available in different lengths in order to work well with various sizes of fireplaces and to suit an individuals’ taste.