How do I measure for a fender?

Measure the width and depth of your fireplace hearth opening, allowing clearance for surrounding tiles or raised hearth stones. Ensure you account for any extending or adjustable mechanisms if the piece spans a variable width. Check the height of the hearth surround so that low fenders do not interfere with fire irons or lower grate openings.

Are these guards safe for open fires?

Most historical guards use iron, steel, and brass mesh specifically designed to catch flying embers from open wood or coal fires. Folding fan screens and tripartite guards provide physical barriers against sparks. Ensure stability on uneven hearth stones before lighting a fire to prevent accidental tipping.

How do I clean antique brass?

Dust the metal regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent soot accumulation. Avoid harsh chemical polishes that strip away historical patination and surface depth. Gentle wiping preserves the aged character developed across the nineteenth and twentieth centuries.

What is a peacock fan screen?

A peacock fan screen consists of multiple folding metal blades that expand into a semicircular fan shape resembling tail feathers. These pieces fold flat when the fireplace is not in use. Victorian and Edwardian homes utilised them primarily as decorative summer covers for empty hearths.