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aushannon

Help- fireplace screen or no screen?

12 years ago
I just bought 2 fireplace screens, and need help deciding which one looks best, or if it looks better without one, let me know that too. The larger screen is a brown antique bronze metal, and the smaller one is a muted silver color. This is a formal "study, and is visible as you enter the house (so I want it to look really nice). Thanks in advance, I really do appreciate your trusted opinions!!

Comments (25)

  • 12 years ago
    I always like fireplace screens, but I think it could use a larger on than the two you picture. Maybe try finding a taller, hinged screen to fill the space up a bit more!
  • 12 years ago
    Very pretty, i like the first one...
  • 12 years ago
    Neither is tall enough, though the first is better. Needs to be taller and wider. Looks ok without any. But if you want more detail then find another one. Good luck!
  • 12 years ago
    Here's a picture of a bigger hinged screen. I think the single panel screen might be more formal?(I do want formal). I probably need to just keep looking, any suggestions on places to find fireplace screens? We are in Houston, there is a lot of places to shop, but not finding many screens. Thanks so much!
  • 12 years ago
    I think a single is better too. Look up iron fire screens online, I'm sure you'll find something you like.
  • 12 years ago
    I vote for the first screen. Your second one seems too small.
  • 12 years ago
    Flat Fireplace Screens- Should overlap the opening by 1” (or up to 4”) on top and sides. Folding Fireplace Screens should be 3-4” taller than the fireplace opening and 10-12” wider. This will ensure that your screen stands on it’s own. The first fireplace screen is my choice, it works very nice with everything in your room.
  • PRO
    12 years ago
    No. I am typically a fan of fireplace screens, however your fireplace is beautiful without it.
  • 12 years ago
    If this is a real wood burning fireplace a spark guard is a good option, it will really protect your wood floors. I have four wood burning fireplaces and use them on all. I have the type on the second picture and have replaced the ugly handles with something more to my liking. You don't have to worry about leaving the fireplace unattended at night with a spark guard. You can get them online and they come in different sizes.
  • 12 years ago
    Without.
  • 12 years ago
    Perhaps, a collection of candles of varying heights (possibly in a nice candle holder) in the firebox would be way to decorate the fireplace. Since your firebox is raised off the hearth, you might have a hard time finding a screen that will cover the opening properly. Unless you will actually use your fireplace and you have small kids, then a screen is not necessary.
  • 12 years ago
    I heard from many of you that it would look good without a screen. I'm going to experiment with some of your great ideas- birch wood, candles etc and see what looks best. The fireplace has glass doors that are shut, so there really isn't a need for a screen, it would have only been for decoration purposes. I will post an update once I complete the project. Thanks again, I know I can always count on you all for the best ideas!!
  • PRO
    12 years ago
    None of those screens work. The first two are too frilly and the larger folding one doesn't fit either. Have one made. Taller and narrower than the last one. But it looks best without one.
  • 12 years ago
    Oh! If it has glass doors that are shut, no need for a screen, it would look contrived. Definitely birch logs (or any logs for that matter), candles are for non-working fireplaces, and really overused.
  • 12 years ago
    What material did you use around fire box (tile, marble, etc)? I like it
  • 12 years ago
    If it is a clear glass door, there are inserts to give the look of a screen.
  • 12 years ago
    stober- it is marble. White and it has some veins running through, which are hard to see.
  • PRO
    10 years ago
    Glass doors -- no screen.
  • PRO
    10 years ago
    There are some great looking screens on this website. Since this is for decorative purposes only, consider other decorative items that minimize the black opening and that can be put aside when the fireplace is in use and still look good in the room... painted mural screen, free standing panels, etc..

    http://www.horchow.com/Golden-Branch-Fireplace-Screen/cprod87620071/p.prod?eVar4=You%20May%20Also%20Like
  • 10 years ago

    Both are too small but the firsts one is better

  • 10 years ago
    First one
  • PRO
    5 years ago

    In cases like yours with a raised in the wall fireplace, sometimes a fireplace glass door or screen door is the most appropriate application.


    Here's an example we have created that shows how a well designed custom fireplace screen door that matches your mantel might look:



    Try our FREE Fireplace Design Service where if you send us pictures of your fireplace and we will show you how various screens and doors will look so you don't have to buy them first.

  • 4 years ago

    I have the same dilemma and after seeing your pictures I like the fireplace with screen. Thanks for helping me decide.

  • 4 years ago

    If you intend to use the fireplace...ever...you will need a screen which is larger in both dimensions than the firebox opening so that no sparks or embers can pop out of the fireplace. Even if you don’t plan to use the fireplace, anything smaller than the opening
    will look odd.