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Antique Fireplace Andirons? - Kylon Powell

Writer John Campbell

How much are andirons worth?

According to dealer catalogues and private collectors, andirons have sold for anywhere from a few hundred dollars per pair to well over $1,000 per set, depending on condition and rarity. Pennsylvania, for example, produced some of the more valuable and rare andirons.

What are andirons used for in fireplace?

Since the Iron Age, people have relied on andirons, a pair of horizontal iron bars with short legs used to support a fireplace’s burning logs. An ornately adorned vertical guard bar at the front of a building is commonly used to keep logs from rolling into the rooms.

What are antique andirons?

Firewood is held slightly above the firebox floor in metal “andirons” to improve airflow and draft in fireplaces. The back foot is formed by a bent iron shaft known as a “dog” or “billet bar” that is connected to the two front legs.

Do you need andirons in a fireplace?

Why do you need a grate or andirons for your fireplace? With andirons and fireplace grates, you can raise the fire above the ground. This helps keep the fire in place and improves the draft.

Do people still use andirons?

As a result, people are decorating their fireplaces to match the rest of their decor. Old English, early American, and country-themed brass and iron andirons are still popular, but new entries in the market include sleek, contemporary-styled andirons, some of them even made from chrome.

Are andirons necessary?

Cooking in the fireplace is still a fun pastime even though it is no longer necessary. A spit, a andiron with spit hooks, and a drip tray (for fat) are the only tools required to cook on a andiron. Using the spit, you can grill or cook a wide variety of foods.