An andiron or firedog, fire-dog or fire dog is a bracket support, normally found in pairs, on which logs are laid for burning in an open fireplace, so that air may circulate under the firewood, allowing better burning and less smoke.

How do you use andirons?

Place the tinder directly on the floor between the andirons. Arrange the tinder in a loose pile with plenty of airspace in the pile. Tightly packed material is harder to ignite and will create excessive smoke. Adjust the placement of the andirons to accommodate the length of your firewood logs or cord wood.

How do I place my andirons in my fireplace?

How To Use Andirons

1. Place the andirons parallel to each other with the horizontal pieces facing in toward the fire and the vertical pieces at the front. ...
2. Pile tinder and kindling on the floor of the fireplace between the andirons.

Do people still use andirons?

Though the invention of the fireplace grate eliminated the need for them, andirons are far from extinct on today`s well-manicured hearths.

Do I need fireplace andirons?

Fireplace andirons provide a better draft in the fireplace, better burning of the wood (environmental aspect) and hold the wood so that it cannot easily roll out of the fireplace (safety). No grate is required when using large logs or tree trunks.

What andirons or firedogs do you need?

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What is the point of andirons?

An andiron or firedog, fire-dog or fire dog is a bracket support, normally found in pairs, on which logs are laid for burning in an open fireplace, so that air may circulate under the firewood, allowing better burning and less smoke.

What is the purpose of fireplace andirons?

Andirons, a pair of horizontal iron bars on short legs and placed parallel to the sides of the fireplace to support burning logs, were used from the Iron Age. A vertical guard bar at the front, placed to prevent logs from rolling into the rooms, is often decorated ornately.

Why are andirons so expensive?

Some of the more valuable andirons were fashioned in the East, such as in Pennsylvania. Other factors that will affect price include the unusual shape of the andirons, who designed them and the materials from which they are made. Generally, andirons made of brass or copper will bring more cash than iron.

How high should andirons be?

The rule of thumb for andiron height is one-half to three-quarters of the height of the fireplace opening, but this isn't written in stone. It is only common sense that a large fireplace requires larger fittings; they will look better and can handle the larger-size logs you will be burning.

Can you use andirons with gas logs?

We carry fireplace both new and antique andirons made for use with wood (long shank) and for use with gas logs or very small fireplaces (short shank). The short shank styles allow the andirons to sit in front of a gas log set for a most realistic look.

Can you paint fireplace andirons?

Before you apply the anti-corrosive paint, you'll want to apply a high temperature primer. ... They offer high temperature paint, good for use with fireplace accessories that have high heat exposure such as the andirons, poker tools, and screens. Spray the primer on evenly, holding the can 5 to 8 inches from the surface.

How are andirons measured?

For determining the correct size of the andirons, it is particularly the depth of the andirons that is important, or the length of the crossbars. The minimum depth is 50% of the depth of the fireplace.

How do firedogs work?

Traditionally, a pair of firedogs were used to hold up the andiron, the horizontal bar that supports the logs in an open fire. The andiron is held above the ground to allow the air to circulate around the fire. ... A feature of the fireplace since Ancient Greek times, the firedog was often used to hold a spit.

How do you polish brass andirons?

Dip the emery cloth in cooking oil and rub in one direction, not round and round, and when it is clean polish it with a Cape Cod Metal Polishing Cloth. Try a piece of lemon dipped in salt, or hot vinegar and salt, to remove corrosion from brass.

How high should a fireplace grate Be?

If you plan on using a gas starter, it should be placed approximately 6" from the fireplace back wall. The overall elevation of it should not exceed 2".

What is a fireplace fender used for?

Fireplace fenders are intended to prevent ash from entering the room from the fireplace, for example due to drafts or someone walking by. They also have significant decorative value.

What is a fireback used for?

The primary functions of a fireback are to protect the wall at the back of the fireplace and radiate heat from the fire into the room.

What do logs sit on in a fireplace?

A rack also holds the logs off the ground. This keeps away bugs and lets the wood dry out more effectively. Grates secure wood-burning logs inside the fireplace so they don't fall and roll into your living space. Andirons also serve the same purpose with a more decorative flair.

What is a fireplace set called?

A fireplace poker, (also known as a fire iron) is a short, rigid rod made of fireproof material used to adjust coal and wood fuel burning in a fireplace, and can be used to stir up a fire.

What is a fireplace basket called?

a portable grate; a cresset. See also: Fire.

Are fireplace screens necessary?

A fireplace screen is needed to help prevent any hot embers from spitting out into the room, which is particularly important when the fireplace located is near wooden floor or carpet. ... 'Use a metal mesh or screen in front of the fireplace to catch flying sparks that could ignite or burn holes in the carpet or flooring.

What are dog irons?

1 South & Midland : andiron. 2 : a short bar of iron having its ends bent at right angles for use as a cramp or joggle (as to hold together timbers or stones)

What did Dalmatians do for firefighters?

Dalmatians and horses are very compatible, so the dogs were easily trained to run in front of the engines to help clear a path and guide the horses and the firefighters to the fires quickly. They are still chosen by many fire fighters as pets in honor of their heroism in the past.

Do firehouses still have dogs?

These days, an awful lot of firefighters have pet Dalmatians, and firehouses around the country still have Dalmatians as station dogs. However, Dalmatians aren't the only dog in the firehouse. It's become common for firefighters (and sometimes entire fire teams) to adopt dogs rescued from fires.