Modern Fireplace Tools

Modern Fireplace Tools

Modern fireplace tools in contrast to antique fireplace tools might be compared no more than when they were made.  However modern or up to date fireplace tools sets can have a utilitarian and decorative effect on a home hearth.  While cast iron tool sets were common, new metals and finishes are in the marketplace.  A tool set still consists of a poker, shovel, brush, log mover and tool stand.  There might be some variants like combining a log holder and tools on one stand.

The finish of the tools is the largest variable in today’s choices.  Brass, pewter and copper are common finishes for tool sets. A great example of a brass finish set is the Uniflame five piece polished brass fireset (f-2191) this set is a wonderful representation of combining functionality and beauty.  Another example of form and function is the Uniflame five piece satin, pewter fireplace tool set (5UF-7547).  This set will look marvelous in any room where the metal finish of pewter is wanted.  And lastly the five piece copper leaded glass fireset will complement any room with a warm effect.  All of these examples are more than just tools.  They have an ability to have an enhanced effect on any room. 

When thinking of modern versions of a fireplace necessity, the log holder comes to mind.  The older styles did the job of holding wood beside the hearth but not too close to the fireplace to allow for ease in keeping a fire going with more wood.  Now, not only will the holder do just that, it will come in two pieces to make the job even easier to bring the wood inside.

The Enclume 5EN-LR10 actually has a separate canvas bag to carry the wood in with and then store it in the log holder. This helps with the transport of the wood inside.  As with all of the Enclume log holders they are very modern looking and durable for long service.  Also, Enclume is an American company.  Another quality, made in the USA product.

Modern fireplace tools will do the same job if not better than the older version.  Remember, get the flue cleaned prior to using it this winter and keep your wood dry and close to the back door. 

James Dahlberg

Jim Dahlberg is the author/owner of Fireplace Accessories Plus.  He has over 25 years commercial experience in the firewood industry.  Fireplace Accessories Plus carries a wide selection from fireplace screen to fireplace rugs.  View a selection of Fireplace Tools here.

Garden Tool Shed

Garden Tool Shed

Avid gardeners realize the importance of having a dry safe place to store all their tools that make the work of managing a garden easier. Beginner gardeners all start out just having a few tools such as shovels, rakes or a couple hand tools. Not really a problem for storing; most people lean them alongside the house or in the garage.

Over time the amateur gardener will notice that the sun, rain and snow are all taking their toll on his gardening tools. As your gardening expertise begins to expand so does the requirement for more tools. This is where the novice figures out that it’s time for a garden tool shed.

Having a specific place just for storing your gardening tools out of the weather and easily organized all in one place is an ideal solution. Now is the time to answer some questions since you have concluded that you need a garden tool shed.

Are you interested in building a kit that comes with all the materials needed and you just supply some elbow grease? Do you want to buy a complete pre-fabricated garden shed and have it delivered? Whether you make it from your designs, build a kit or purchase the complete one; are you considering wood or metal?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of wood verses metal sheds? Aesthetically a wood shed beats a metal one hands down in appearance. Lets face it wood is rugged, pleasing to the eye and blends in well with most garden settings. There are some drawbacks to wood sheds; they require protection from the sun, wind and rain and they are chewing targets for every little mouse and rat in the area. If you don’t mind painting a wood shed every couple of years with a good quality wood preservative and replacing some chewed up boards periodically then a wooden one is probably the one for you.

A metal garden tool shed will never have the natural beauty that a wood shed has but it will stand the test of time.

Rodents can’t hurt it, and the worst weather conditions are not going to affect the appearance or deteriorate the structure. Storing mulch, grass seed and fertilizer is easy without little critters running around inside and it won’t have to be treated for termites. Gather your shovels, rakes, hoes and pitch forks together to see just how much space you’re going to need for your new garden tool shed.

You can learn more about wooden garden sheds, and get more information and articles at Wooden Garden Sheds