Firebacks have been used as far back as the 18th century, and were a common accessory in the American colonial fireplace. They were originally made from recycled stove plats, and many were decorated or engraved to create a unique, eye-catching accessory. Many of them originally resembled biblical woodcuts, but today, there are countless designs and materials readily available to make your fireplace stand apart.

Since the back wall of the fireplace can undergo intense heat damage from frequent use, firebacks can help protect the area. Today’s fireplaces are well-insulated and constructed with materials to prevent excessive burning, but adding a fireback can be a welcome addition for both the look and function of your unit. Any heat that is normally lost during burning can be absorbed with a fireback. Heat will also be distributed more efficiently when there is a fireback in place. In fact, installing a fireback can increase the efficiency of your fireplace by almost 50%!

Once the fire has gone out, a fireback can help radiate any remaining heat into the living room or living space, creating another heat source without the added costs of heating or burning logs. These slate slabs can be ornate as simple as the fireplace surroundings themselves. Sloping the firebacks at a certain degree may also help to improve heat radiation, improving circulation overall.

The most common methods of casting firebacks were to cut a design directly into a slab of oak, and then melt metal directly onto the impression. Today, you can find various reproductions of authentic firebacks that have been imported from Europe. Many of them have royal influences and roots, while others focus on biblical and heraldic designs. The original cast-iron firebacks are too heavy for modern-day use, and today’s designs are made from lighter metals instead.

Firebacks are most attractive when they are cast and sculpted from stone. You can choose from a large selection of pre-made designs, or choose a custom-made model to accent your space. Common designs may include portraits, names, or favorite pictures that are cast in the stone itself.

Even though there are different ways to maintain heat flow in a room, your fireplace’s output can be significantly increased by installing a fireback. Firebacks come in two key styles: stainless steel or cast iron. Each one can be simply set against the back of ht fireplace wall, or secured in place with supporting braces that hang inside the fireplace surroundings interior.

The fireback can be a focal point of many living spaces, and it can prove to be a valuable accessory for conserving heating costs from your fireplace.