What's a fireback, you ask? Basically, firebacks are decorative cast-iron panels made to stand behind the fire. Their purpose is to absorb heat and radiate it back into the room. Firebacks also protect the bricks in the back of the firebox from turning black with soot.
In ye olden days when masonry fireplaces were commonly used to heat homes, they were used all the time. Today, when fireplaces are more for ambiance than heat, firebacks are less well known. They are still a good idea for increasing heat output, whether you're burning wood or flicking on gas logs in your fireplace. Also, they can look cool. Antique firebacks are highly desired if they can be found in good condition. Decorations stamped in the cast-iron could be anything from a hunting scene to a family crest.
Of course, you can always buy new ones via Internet stores. Homeclick has a variety of firebacks such as this Large Oak Fireback (last I checked, they offered free shipping, which is nice, because these suckers are heavy!).
Source: Ideas for Great Fireplaces
For a large collection of antique firebacks at a friendly price
Posted by: Charles Nijman | December 17, 2007 at 02:39 AM