The best fireplace grates might seem like an unnecessary expense, but it might just be an investment that is worth making. There are three primary types of grates to consider today.
• Steel bar grates. These are used for fireplaces that burn wood exclusively.
• Cast iron grates. These are used for fireplaces that burn coal but will also work with wood.
• Grate heaters. This product produces heat for the home for wood-burning fireplaces.
You cannot use a steel grate with coal because the bars on the grate are spread too far apart to hold the materials.
Once you know what type of gate you need, you’re ready to start taking advantage of everything the best fireplace grates are able to do.
What Are the Advantages of Owing a Fireplace Grate?
The primary advantage in using a fireplace grate is that it makes a fire easier to light. Because your burning materials are kept off of the ground, you will have a full range of oxygen to get that fire started.
The best fireplace grates are also able to provide you with these additional advantages.
• You will receive a better quality burn. Because the burning materials are off of the ground, you’ll receive 360 degrees of burning instead of the 180 degrees of burning when the materials are grounded. This also means that the burn will be more complete, reducing the need to adjust the wood or coal while the fire is active.
• You will protect the floor of your fireplace. A fireplace grate will keep the heat off of the floor, reducing the wear and tear placed on your fireplace.
• You will experience better drafting. Since your fire is placed closer to your chimney, you’ll find that smoke tends to be drafted away. Fumes are also reduced. This is because you’ve provided the opportunity to put more air above and below the burning materials.
• You will have less work. The design of most fireplace grates includes a curl that keeps the firewood or coal in a central location. This allows you to enjoy your fire more and worry about working it less.
Which Type of Fireplace Grate is Right for Me?
Steel grates are best suited for occasional use. There are thick steel grates that are intended for daily use, but they also tend to come with a higher price. If you burn harder woods in your fireplace, you’ll want to purchase a high-quality steel grate even if you use the fireplace infrequently.
Cast iron grates tend to be the gold standard of fireplace care. Not only are they affordable, but they also retain heat well so you receive residual warmth for some time after you extinguish your fire.
If your fireplace struggles to circulate heat throughout your home, then a grate heater is your best choice. We highly recommend this wood-burning grate heater by Stoll to meet that need.
The best fireplace grates will make it easier to care for your fire while adding life to your fireplace. That’s why an investment makes sense.