If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove, you know the importance of having wood on hand to toss into the fire. Selecting a wood basket for decorative purposes is fine if you never need over a few pieces but can get tiresome in carrying more wood in when it is needed. A rack is your best bet for keeping an ample amount of wood on hand and there are many unique styles that fit into your home's decor.
One of the most important features to look for in shopping for an indoor firewood rack is durability. A popular design is wrought iron with curved or straight lines, depending on your taste but make sure that it is actual wrought iron and not a flimsy look a like that could break within a matter of months. You will know wrought iron just by lifting the piece. It will be heavy and sturdy. Check the joints for solid solders.
Almost all firewood racks sit 3-4 inches off of the floor so that your wood is able to breathe and cure. This also protects your floor's surface from mold and moisture that naturally occurs in wood. Make sure that this feature is present along with the durability factor. The shapes of firewood racks have also changed over time, with a wide variety of choices now available. Depending on where you choose to place your rack, there are models that sit flush against a wall, oblong, round or square to fit into that perfect spot.
Not all firewood racks are wrought iron. If you have a modern style décor, you may want a more upbeat rack to match the outline of your fireplace. Stainless steel is an excellent option that is also sturdy and dependable. There are also choices of pewter, bronze and copper that provide style as well as function. Sleek lines and artistic designs prove that firewood can be beautiful!
Some models offer a side pocket for kindling wood as a fire starter or a bottom tray for newspapers. Depending on how often you use your fireplace or stove, different sizes are available and can hold anywhere from eight piece of wood and up. There are also firewood rack covers that can be used to keep your wood dry and secure when not in use depending on where your rack is placed.
Keeping your wood available and ready when that fire is needed does not mean that you have to sacrifice style. Visit different fireplace stores or specialty stores and see the difference in the options now available. But remember that quality should be your number one concern. Always choose a reputable dealer and one that has a guarantee on their products. Their craftsmanship will be better and if you happen to purchase a piece with a defect, they will not hesitate to replace.