Whether you have just started researching fireplace screen ideas or you are about ready to place that order, here are some key considerations to consider before ordering that custom fireplace screen.

In an effort to assist in the buying process, we’ve put together this firescreen buyer’s guide for designers and consumers.

Note: All of the information in this guide comes from years of knowledge and personal experience. Though we’ve manufactured hundreds of fireplace screens and doors, much of this information is considered an opinion.

As you’re probably aware, there are tons of fireplace styles/hearth layouts on the market.

This makes it confusing when trying to decide what type of fireplace covering is best for you.

We're going to help with this.

Things to consider...

- Do I need a screen just for looks or for protection?

- Do I need a free-standing screen, or built-in doors?

- Do I need mesh backing, or can I do without it?

- What if my opening is considered oversized?

Do you have gas logs, or a real wood burning fireplace?

This will indicate if you need mesh backing or not.

Some people want mesh anyway, but if you have gas logs, you have no need for mesh, which will save you some money and allow you to fully see everything inside.

If you do have wood burning logs, you will need mesh backing on your free-standing screen or doors.

The mesh is what will prevent the embers from popping and landing on your floors, rug or onto you.

How important is the screen's size?

How to measure for your screen

The red line in the drawing shows the recommended outside measurement of what the fire-screen will be.

Most customers like the idea of going with 1” taller and 1”wider, all the way around the opening. This will ensure no sparks leave and it'll help to keep the kids/pets out.

Fireplace screen size to be:32”H x 41”W

Note: keep in mind that the feet are included in the overall height

Simple vs. Embellished Frame

It doesn't matter either way, it's just for looks.

Some people like a little more

Some people like a little less

Do you have a riser?

It's no big deal if you do, and just so that you're aware...with a riser, your screen will sit out away from the face of the opening a bit.

Also, your screen will need to be higher in order to cover the entire opening.

Our legs typically stick out 3" in the back, but we can make them flush in the back as long as your screen is larger than your opening.

Do I Need Doors? If so - which kind?

Free Standing Fireplace screens with Doors

Do you have real logs requiring mesh backing?

Is your fireplace opening considered oversized?

If so, we recommend a free-standing screen with doors.

For this type of design/application, we’ve seen screens weigh 80 lbs and more.

This is not something you want to move every time you need to stoke your logs, or add more.

How do you know if your screen is to be considered large or not? Take the width x height, and if the number is 1,400 or more, you’ll want to consider doors for ease of use.

With that said, it also depends upon the design.

If you go with a screen that has no pattern, it'll weigh much less than one that has a design like the screens below.

Do you want flush-mounted doors?

It depends a little on your setup and or upon your personal preference.

Some applications need doors due to having no hearth to sit a free-standing screen onto.

If you have a raised “wood-burning” fireplace, it would be wise to install flush-mounted doors.

If you have gas logs, it’s a personal preference on whether or not you need anything at all.

Unusual Applications