Fireplace Screens

Fireplace screens were introduced in the eighteenth century, and initially were used to prevent any sparks, embers or smoke from the fire escaping from the grate and onto people or furnishings. Early screens were made of tapestry, and these were often woven with the family armour of the middle-class families to whom they belonged.

Types of early fire screen include pole fire screens that stood at either side of the fireplace, sliding panel screens that worked in much the same way as a sash window, and the panelled fire screens like the ones seen today. Fire screens were highly ornate and many contained decorative items such as stuffed birds, butterflies or dried flowers, and these antique screens are very much in demand today. As well as shielding occupants and property from the fire, a fire screen had a purely decorative function in the summer, hiding the empty coal grate.

Today, there are many types of fireplace screen for sale. Single panelled fire screens are ideal for the smaller fireplace, and where space is limited. These sit up flush against the fireplace opening, so are only suitable for flat fires. 3 and 4 panelled folding fireplace screens are also available, and these provide a traditional look for larger fireplaces.

Folding fireguards can be folded down and stored away if not in use, thus taking up little space. Curved fireguards are ideal for fireplaces where the fire is not completely flush and glass fireplace screens are also available, in many styles. Some are made for decorative purposes only, and only those made from toughened safety glass can be used with a lit fire. If you buy a glass screen, double-check with the retailer that it can be used when the fire is lit.

Fire screens come in many decorative designs and are made from many materials such as metal, glass, wire mesh and brass. Today, the glass ‘tiffany style’ screens are very popular, and these come in a range of colours and designs to suit every home. Many of the basic screens are made from strong mesh edged with wrought iron or brass, and these come in several colours such as black, silver and bronze.

Fireplace screens were initially invented for the purpose of protection from heat, smoke or stray embers, yet today they are used mainly for their decorative qualities – most people have gas fires or electric fires, yet still have a fireguard to enhance the look of the fireplace. If you do have a solid fuel fire, then a fire screen is essential, especially if there are children or elderly people in the household.