If you are interested in fitting a reproduction Victorian fireplace, always seek the advice of a reputable fireplace dealer. They will be able to fully assist you with any queries you may have prior to purchase.
In the Victorian era, the immensely ornate fireplace surrounds and over-mantels were constructed from stone, slate, marble or wood. However, the high costs of labour and materials needed to reproduce something similar today would mean that only the wealthiest people would be able to afford them. Modern materials have been developed to reproduce copies of original mouldings at relatively low cost:
Glass Reinforced Polyester (GRP): is a durable, lightweight man-made material, also used in car bodies. GRP can take a considerable amount of stress, and, as a plastic, it can be moulded into any shape. Sometimes, a mould itself is made from GRP.
Polyurethane Foam (PU): Two chemicals are mixed by machine and injected into a flexible rubber mould, where they react together and expand to fill the mould. PU meets class 4 fire retardant standards, meaning that it is suitable for use in all types of building.
Fibrous Plaster is similar to plaster of Paris. This is mixed with water and laid into a mould, onto which strips of Hessian or timber lathes are laid, to give it strength. Alternative layers of plaster and strengtheners build up the mould until the back is finished flush with plaster. Incidentally, fibrous plaster has been in use for two centuries and many reproduction Victorian fireplaces are constructed today using both natural and modern materials. Fibrous plaster is also used for decorative canopies, corbels and mouldings.
As mentioned previously, the Victorian era saw the advent of the cast iron fireplace, and JIG fireworks are the manufacturers of truly outstanding reproduction cast iron fires. Victorianfires.co.uk stock a wide selection of JIG Victorian reproduction cast iron fireplaces, with combinations, inserts and surrounds all available.
The Victorian age was influenced by many styles from previous eras, and so there are many Victorian reproduction fireplaces to choose from. Reproduction Victorian fireplace tiles and decorative tile panels are also widely available.
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[...] Victorian fireplaces are obviously much more expensive than reproduction fireplaces, but to some they are worth every penny. Such fireplaces bring priceless history and character into [...]