Happy 2011 Everyone! We’d like to kick off the New Year at FastFireplaces by talking about an old favorite – fireplace mantels. FastFireplaces.com features a full line of fireplace mantel designs, as well as giving you the option to create a custom fireplace mantel or mantel shelf to your exact specifications.

How can we offer all this mantel goodness? We’ve partnered with Mount Vernon Mantels, the premier manufacturer and distributor of custom wood fireplace mantels in Central Ohio.  They’ve given us the ability to fill any fireplace mantel or fireplace mantel shelf order you can throw at us, so check out our selection of wood mantels, then give us a call at 800-398-4010 to order!

~Your Friends at FastFireplaces.com

FMI is one of the top brands in hearth products, and we’ve been working hard to bring them to you.  Well, all that work paid off last week when we found a great supplier, and now we have the full FMI product line up on FastFireplaces.  Here are a few of the products we’d like to highlight:

FMI fireplaces – FMI makes a very wide selection of quality fireplaces.  Wood burning fireplaces, gas fireplaces, outdoor fireplaces, vented or vent-free, peninsula fireplaces – they make everything you need.

FMI gas logs – FMI also makes some nice gas fireplace logs that go great with their gas fireplaces, or any of the other gas fireplaces on the site.  They have a few different styles to choose from, and the quality is superb.

FMI accessories – We have added hundreds of FMI accessories to our product offering.  FMI makes everything you need to complete the installation and look of your fireplace – venting, supports, brick liners, louvers, trim, FMI fireplace doors, and more.

One product that really stands out in this new line is the FMI Alpine Vent Free Gas Fireplace.  This versatile vent free gas fireplace can be installed indoors and outdoors, and is available with several different brick linings, along with many FMI options for trim and doors.

Wondering what to get for the homeowner who has everything?  Fireplace accessories might be just the thing.  Everyone has a fireplace, but how many people are maximizing the aesthetic charm of this centerpiece?  If the home décor lover on your list has been neglecting the fireplace, this holiday season is a great time for you to help them spruce up that hearth.

When you think of fireplace accessories, the place to start is fireplace tool sets.  These products not only beautify your fireplace – they are essential for proper fireplace upkeep and safety.  When looking for fireplace tools, there are several requirements to keep in mind.  Look for tools made from durable materials, usually wrought iron is best.  Solid brass or stainless steel work too.  These tools cost a bit more, but will maintain their look and usefulness for the lifetime of your fireplace.  Be sure to consider whether your tools fit in with the theme of your fireplace.  Your new tools should go well with the finish of your fireplace and any fireplace screen, log holder, or andirons that you may have.

Next, consider investing in a fireplace screen.  These screens can be a stand-out addition to your hearth, casting the brilliant flame from your firebox in an entirely new light.  Choose a style that fits with your overall décor and that gives your fire a new dimension.  A fireplace screen is also a good way to protect your home from the damage that a real wood fire can sometimes cause.  Flying sparks can be a real danger to carpeting, clothing, and anyone standing near the fireplace.  By using a fireplace screen, you can ensure that these flying sparks will land harmlessly against the screen.

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, a log holder can allow you to store hours worth of wood inside, eliminating the need to venture outside on a cold night.  A wood holder also provides aesthetic balance to your hearth by filling out the side opposite of the fireplace tools, and can be matched to your tools and fireplace screen.

FastFireplaces.com has a full selection of fireplace accessories, including fireplace tools, fireplace screens & more.  Come check us out on the web and find the perfect gift for the hearth lover in your life.

~Your Friends at FastFireplaces.com