subject: What to Know About Log Racks [print this page] Author: Lisa Becker Author: Lisa Becker
Ever wondered what a log rack is? It's an enclosure in which you store wood to be used in your wood burning stove or fireplace. Now there are two basic types of firewood racks and though they are similar in their designs, one is for interior use while the other is for exterior use. A 'log rack' is an interior firewood rack which is smaller and more decorative but is highly functional.
Every log rack is designed to serve its basic purpose; to organize the firewood while in storage, to keep the firewood clean and dry and also to keep critter out of the firewood.
Other Advantages of Log Racks
Here are some other advantages to log racks that make them an added bonus to your home:
* They protect the wood from the wind, snow, and humidity.
* They make sure the wood stays of the highest quality.
* Logs love the water and all moisture retained by the logs can result in the growth of mold and rot from within. And this is how dry rot starts -- once it begins, it will eat away and ruin your logs. Log racks will hold your wood ensuring the quality of your wood, from start to finish.
* Bugs, spiders, and other vermin love the dark, secluded places that a random wood pile would give them. Log racks help you eliminate the wasted space that bugs can create home in, ensuring you the safety of your family and keeping your logs organized.
* Log racks considerably mitigate the chances of getting attacked by the fungus and mold
* Effectively, using log racks will keep the wood as dry as at the time when it was cut and stored and such wood is more smoky, resistible and durable.
What Types of Log Racks are Available
An indoor firewood rack can be made of a wide variety of materials, such as metal, acrylic or wood and is available in various sizes, shapes and colors too. They are also available in different textures and different kinds of finishes so you could select the one that complements the dcor of your house. They could be curved or basic design, metal or cedar, black or bronze finish, adjustable, ornamental or contemporary
The indoor firewood holders/ log racks are mainly constructed with wrought iron or steel. The more expensive and high end models will have hand forged accents and designs which make them unique. Some log racks include a reservoir for containing a quantity of a fumigant and slowly releases the vapors upwardly through the firewood to kill or repel insects or other pests.
What to Consider when Shopping for a Log Rack
By knowing what you need before you go to buy it, you will ensure the best value in the right investment.
Size:
The foremost thing to do before buying a log rack is taking an honest assessment of the wood you will be using throughout the year. If you buy one that is too small, you are exposing some of your logs to snow, fire, rain and even growth of rot. On the other hand, if you buy a rack too big you will waste the surplus space. Consider these factors before buying the log rack. Are you fond of burning logs in your fireplace frequently? Do you love to have lots of barbecues throughout the summer and feed your grill with oak and cedar? In case you use wood all year round and you are constantly replenishing your supplies, a bigger wood rack is what you need. However, if you only burn wood on rare occasions a smaller log rack would best suit your needs.
Material:
There are many different types of racks to choose from. From wood to metal, log racks come in a variety of builds, shapes, and sizes. If a small, rustic log rack that will compliment the outdoor theme of your patio furniture is what you are looking for, you may want to try a wood rack. If you want to go for a wooden rack, always select one that is resistant to the weather and pets, either by composition or by treatment. In that case cedar is an excellent choice, because it is naturally resistant to nature.
If you need a larger log rack that will hold a half cord or more, you should consider buying a large metal rack. Metal is better than any other material you can find on the market. When treated correctly it will stand up to the moisture, dirt, and debris better than other materials.
How a Log Basket Differs from a Log Rack
A log basket is different from a log rack in its utility and even size. A log basket is used to meet your fireside needs, to keep a ready supply of firewood on hand for any fire building occasion while a log rack is used to store the log in the house. A log basket also helps keep the hearth area clean and free from dead leaves, bark, etc. Some of the log baskets can be used as magazine and newspaper holders too. Effectively, it acts as a courier in between the log rack and the fireplace itself.
Also remember that both log baskets and wood holders are primarily functional and necessary tools to keep your fireplace in working order and enjoyable to use.About the Author:
Lisa Becker is an avid home decorator and writes for Fireplace Mantels 123: Shop For Your Perfect Fireplace Mantel and Surround. Her expertise regarding fireplace mantels and surrounds provides insight into the world of interior design and home decorating. Check out more useful articles at Fireplace Mantels 123.
