For picnic tables, decks, porches, patios, and sidewalks, decorators are using an unusual source of candle lighting. Fireplace candelabra—those candle holders intended for fireplaces—have moved outside for the summer!
Fireplace candelabra were originally designed to hold candles in your fireplace when you want the glow of flickering flames but not the heat or hassle of wood or gas fires. But fireplace candelabra, more sturdily constructed than most candelabra, can be right at home in an outdoor setting, too.
The sturdy construction of fireplace candelabra makes them less delicate than traditional candelabra. Their solidness is just what is needed to look appropriate and function well in the less formal entertainment settings of outdoors.
Another appeal of fireplace candelabra for outdoor use is that they come in a variety of metals. Most are a traditional black iron, and those have the advantage of “disappearing” in the dusk of evening so their candles seem to float in the darkness. Some fireplace candelabra have a sophisticated, brushed steel finish that, mirror-like, reflects the candles’ flames. A few have a copper finish. With these fireplace candelabra, the candle light is beautifully reflected in the warm, mellow glow of the copper.
Narrow fireplace candelabra, designed for small or zero clearance fireplaces, are ideal on deck railings, down the middle of picnic tables, or along the edges of sidewalks. Deeper fireplace candelabra work well in the middle round tables, at the back of outdoor serving tables, or in any open air setting where you want the glow of multiple candles.
Add citronella candles to fireplace candelabra you’ve taken outdoors and you can chase away pesky mosquitoes while giving your al fresco setting the special glow that only candlelight can offer.
Worried about the wind blowing out your candles? Some fireplace candelabra are designed without candle pins in the candle cups. These will accommodate wind-protected container candles such as votive candles in glass cups.
Let the color of your candles add to the festivities. Bedeck your fireplace candelabra, for example, in red, white and blue candles for Memorial Day weekend and July 4th.
So be creative with fireplace candelabra; repurpose them meet your outdoor candlelight needs, too.
Checklist: Do I Need to Replace My Chimney Cap?
As you are cleaning leaves out of your home’s gutters, dealing with Christmas lights, or adjusting a satellite dish, don’t forget to evaluate your chimney caps while you’re on the roof. Chimney caps are those mesh-sided enclosures (usually made of stainless steel, copper, or galvanized steel) atop your chimney to prevent water, animals, bird droppings, and leaves from entering your home. A once-a-year assessment of your chimney caps’ condition can be well worth your time for protecting your house. Here are four things you can easily check on your chimney caps:
5 Reasons Fireplace Owners Think Early Spring is "Firewood Time"
As the weather hints of warmth and the spring buds appear on trees, firewood may not be the first thing that comes to mind. But early spring is the ideal time to buy or gather your firewood for your fireplace or woodstove. Why? Here are 5 good reasons:
Easter Decorating Ideas for Your Fireplace
Sure you decorate your fireplace and mantel for the winter holidays, but don’t forget this important focal point in your room as Spring approaches. Here are some nearly-instant ideas for springtime and Easter fireplace decorating:
