If you have the pleasure of a fireplace, you know what a luxury it can be. Nothing is more cozy, especially in cooler weather, than curling up next to the crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa. Once fireplaces were the standard for every home; they were a necessity. Now with modern-day central heating, they are more decorative and for pleasure. There are also risks involved with fireplaces, and fireplace screens are a necessary precaution.

If you have the pleasure of a fireplace, you know what a luxury it can be. Nothing is more cozy, especially in cooler weather, than curling up next to the crackling fire with a cup of hot cocoa. Once fireplaces were the standard for every home; they were a necessity. Now with modern-day central heating, they are more decorative and for pleasure. There are also risks involved with fireplaces, and fireplace screens are a necessary precaution.

You have probably noticed that sometimes a fire will suddenly pop loudly; this is the result of air pockets in the wood exploding. While this sound can be enjoyable, it is also a hazard in the home. Pieces of burning wood and ash can be thrown from the fire onto your flooring or carpet. To keep your home from this hazard, you need the protection of a fireplace screen.

Choosing the proper size fireplace screen can be as important as having one. The best way to ensure you choose the right size is to first measure the height and width of your fireplace. Add 10 to 12 inches to the width and 3 to 5 inches to the height, and this will give you the ideal size needed for the screen. The extra size allowance will keep the screen from tipping over and allow it to fold correctly.

Another thing to consider is whether you want a single pane screen or a double paneled screen. Single pane screens are very simple and practical. Double paned screens may be a bit more complicated and time consuming, but they are also more decorative. Your personal preference will play into this decision greatly.

There are various designs of fireplace screens available. You will want to find a screen that fits into the general decorating scheme of your home and compliments it. Fireplaces are often the focal point of the room they are in, and a fireplace screen can be a nice addition to make it more attractive and draw the eye away from the darkness of the fireplace.

As far as design, this will also depend on the decor of your home and your personal style. There are traditional screens, which are more classic and simple. Antique screens are elegant and usually feature designs with scrolls and curves. Designer screens are for the more modern touch, and outdoor screens are usually black to go with almost any decor scheme.

Fireplace screens designs are usually also available in various colors. You need to choose a color that will compliment the dominant color in the room in which it will be placed.