Screens can be flat or folding and come in several different configurations and finishes. They can have a single panel or several and the panels can be made from glass or metal screening. The frames can be made from materials like brass, copper, bronze, aluminum and wrought iron. There are contemporary and antique style screens that will add a decorative touch to your fireplace, and there are simple panels that offer protection while letting your fireplace be the star.
Once you decide what style screen suits you, it is important that you choose the right size screen for the type of fireplace you have. Each type requires different sizing in order to work properly. You first need to measure the width and height of your fireplace and determine whether you have a wood-burning, gas, or gel type.
Should you choose a flat screen, it should overlap the opening by at least 1” around, regardless of whether you have a wood-burning, gas, or gel fireplace. Folding screens need to be between 3” and 4” taller than the opening and 10-12” wider for wood-burning fireplaces and at least 1” taller and 10-12” wider for a gas fireplace.