When thinking of a fireplace the grate isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But you shouldn’t be surprised to hear that, as quite often is the case, it is there for a reason. In theory, your fireplace would function seemingly normally when hosting a fire without a grate. There is a lot more than meets the eye though.
The benefits of using a fireplace grate:
- The efficiency of the fire is higher, as more air can reach the fire. Allowing you to warm up the house faster and save on wood expenses.
- Consequently, less harmful gass emission from the fireplace.
- The bottom of your fireplace gets less hot, consequently, requiring less maintenance.
- A fireplace grate lowers the risk of fire breaking out.
- Easier to light, as you can light it from below the grate.
- Easier to clean, as you can put an ashtray below the grate.
- It is more aesthetic.
A fireplace unfortunately always emits some harmful gasses into your home.
If you want an easy fix you should check our article about air purifiers.
So we advice to get one when you own a fireplace in your home. In this guide we won’t be discussing whether or not they are necessary, but which types serve which purposes. And how to select which fireplace grate suits you best.
The Main Fireplace Grate Materials and Their Appliance
Cast Iron Fireplace Grates
This is the traditional fireplace grate and probably what you’re thinking of when you picture one. A cast iron fireplace grate is a set-it-and-forget-it solution. They require no maintenance and will last surprisingly long, especially given their exposure to extreme conditions. However, they are generally a bit more expensive. Regardless, it is possible to make a significant return on your investment, given you don’t pick one within the higher price range.
Steel Fireplace Grates
Alternatively, a steel fireplace grate can be chosen. The first few years it won’t look that different from their cast iron counterpart and especially if you don’t use the fireplace often you could be better off with these grates. With limited use, they too will last a long time.
| Cast Iron Firewood Grates | Steel Firewood Grates | |
| Durability | Highly durable, long-lasting. >10 years | Less durable, may warp over time. <5 years |
| Weight | Heavy | Lighter, easier to move |
| Material Strength | Robust and sturdy | Less robust but flexible |
| Heat Retention | Retains heat well for longer burn time | Heats up quickly but cools down faster |
| Compatibility | Suitable for both coal and wood | Best for wood only |
| Cost | More expensive | More affordable |
Special Fireplace Grates
Aside from the choice of material there are also a lot of fireplace grates offering additional functionality. Some features are:
- Even less smoke
- More heat / better combustion
- Automation
These functions are separate from the material choice as you can get almost all types made from either material. Let’s dive into some examples.
Vertical Fireplace Grates
Instead of having the firewood on top of the grate this fireplace grate presses the firewood against the back of the fireplace. This vertical alignment of the firewood increases the heat distribution and decreases smoke production. If you have been paying close attention to the original list of benefits of using a fireplace grate, you may be left wondering:
How does this not damage the back of the fireplace, as it otherwise would with the bottom of the fireplace?
This is where a fireback is needed. These reflect the heat to the front of the fireplace and prevent the masonry of the fireplace from getting damaged. They work particularly well in combination with a vertical fireplace grate. In the displayed image the vertical fireplace grate is attached to the fireback, but they are commonly sold seperately.
Please take note: Aside from this combination, a fireback could also be recommended in general. They improve the efficiency, lifespan, and even the safety of any fireplace. You may want to consider doing some further reading into firebacks too.
Finally, I would like to point out that the design of these vertical fireplace grates is a favorite with fireplace lovers. They deliver a magnificent view of the fire when lit.
Self Feeding Fireplace Grates
This is the solution for anyone who doesn’t want to spend too much time with their fireplace. The shape of this grate lets the logs roll towards the center, thus keeping the fire going for longer as new logs keep rolling into the fire. It is also the perfect solution for when the fire needs to keep on going throughout the night. Homes that fully rely on the fireplace for heating would need this for the colder winter months.
Wood Heater Fireplace Grates
If you want to maximize the efficiency of your fireplace then look no further. A wood heater grate (electrically) injects the fire with oxygen. Creating a combustion efficiency that would otherwise not be possible. Unsurprisingly these fireplace grates are in the highest price range.
As can be seen in the image there is an external electrical unit required. The grate itself is hollow and transports air towards the fire. This setup requires more work than the other options, especially if you don’t want the external unit to be visible. That said though, the highest efficiency can be achieved this way.
How to Choose the Right Grate for Your Fireplace
If the information presented thus far leaves you in doubt about which fireplace grate to get, we have your back. Please find our decision chart below:
And no we have not forgotten to mention the wood heater grates. We would only recommand that when you live in extreme cold, have poor home isolation, and have a high budget. Otherwise, the regular solutions should do the trick just fine. We rest assured, now that you have the tools to make the right decision.
