What Size Fire Grate Do I Need?

When determining what size fire grate you need to purchase you are going to have to measure the front and back widths plus the depth of your fireplace. The grate you choose should be around 6” smaller than your fireplace’s width and at least 3” smaller in depth.

Price - Price is in direct relation to the quality of any product, but especially in the fire grate world. If you don’t want to have to buy a fire grate every year, you may want to consider forking out a little extra money, especially if you are planning to use your fireplace more than occasionally.

·        Steel - You can purchase steel grates for as cheap as $15 for a 1/2” bar grate or for as expensive as $56 for a 3/4” bar. There is also what is considered “lifetime” grates. The difference being the thickness of the bars and the price. These grates can range any where between $98 and $138 depending on the style you want. If you decide to go with a “lifetime” grate, make sure it has a “lifetime” warranty to go along with it just to be on the safe side.

·        Cast Iron - Grates made of cast iron are a little more expensive, but they also longer lasting. If you decide to go this route you should look to spend at least $39. The daily user, on the other hand, may want to consider shelling out around $200 - $300. If you need an expandable cast iron grate they generally start at $80 and go up from there depending on the size you need.

·        Grate Heaters - Just because of the additional technology applied to this type of grate you can expect to pay more. If you find one less than $300, you should ask yourself if you want to spend the same $300 when it breaks down, or spend an extra $200 now and have it last twice as long.