Considering a Cast Iron Fireplace?

They were used for heat, built in the centre of a place of dwelling where a hole in the roof allowed for smoke to escape. Later, in about 1678, Prince Rupert, who was the nephew of Charles I, raised the grate of the fireplace to improve the airflow. Further development was made by Benjamin Franklin, who created the convection nature of wood-burning stoves to release more heat in a wider radius (Wikipedia). Since their creation, fireplaces have become synonymous with comfort and warmth of friends of family as a place to relax together.

Today, cast iron fireplaces are used for less full-house heating, and more for a supplement to vented heating systems as a way to save on energy bills. Considering a cast iron fireplace can be a good investment, whether it's gas, gel, electric, or wood burning. All of these options can help you save on your energy costs as well as provide a nice gathering place for your friends and family on those cold winter nights.

What fuel to chose? Well, this is all a matter of preference. While enclosed gas and electric stoves are more efficient, they are powered by non-renewable resources. The other options, as mentioned, include wood-burning and gel-burning, and are more Eco-friendly. Firewood is relatively easy to get and is 100% renewable. You can order a truckload of sliced wood from a supplier and they can deliver it right to your house. You can also purchase the wood in bundles from department stores and home improvement stores. Fire gel is more expensive, but burns much slower than firewood. These fuel packs can be found at some grocery stores, department stores, or home improvement stores.

If you chose an open fireplace built into the wall with a moveable screen, note that you may be losing a lot of that heat up the chimney. A cast iron fire place is the perfect addition to any home whether it is modern in decor or traditionally furnished. A more box-shaped model with attached doors would actually not only be easier to clean, but spread heat out more allowing more warmth into the room. Some indoor fireplaces even come with a matching cast iron kettle that can be placed on top of the stove when filled with water to rehydrate the dry air when the weather gets cold. This can be great for families with sensitive sinuses.

Besides the classic indoor style, there are also outdoor cast iron fireplaces that you can bring to outdoor gatherings such as tailgate parties or fall and winter events. A fire place is the main focal point of a room, it is what gives the room character, and without it your room would feel bare and austere. These fireplaces, or rather, fire pits, are usually bowl- or urn-shaped to allow smoke to disperse while still allowing people to enjoy the warmth. These often come with top grates, rather than the doors or screens that indoor fireplaces require. It is much easier and more fun to use these as cooking fires. Some outdoor fireplaces even come in the form of grills or have a grilling accessory you can purchase.

Why cast iron? While other materials like stone or brick are perfectly good for fireplaces and fire pits, cast iron is sturdy and conducts heat better. The tools you may need, including a poker to move the wood around are excellent in cast iron as well, as the material doesn't damage easily in heat. If you chose a gas-burning stove or other type, cast iron is not only sturdy, but remains strong for a long time and retain its look for years to come.

Whatever you chose, a cast iron fireplace is definitely a good choice for your new fireplace purchase. Consider all your options and shop around before deciding.