Everything You Need to Know About Victorian Fireplaces

Looking back to the 19th Century, the Victorian era – marking the period of Queen Victoria’s reign between June 1837 and January 1901 – brought with it numerous societal and aesthetic changes, including the creation of the Victorian fireplace.

The dark colour and ornate design of the Victorian cast iron fireplace makes it a natural choice for those seeking a more traditional, refined centrepiece for a room in their home.

Why Choose a Victorian Fireplace?

Victorian fireplaces are instantly recognisable due to the way they are composed, traditionally being made of a wood, marble or stone surround with a decorative cast iron insert with tiled insert being introduced later in the period. The Victorian fireplace will add an element of charm to any living room or bedroom with its careful decoration and historical authenticity.

How Do I Maintain My Victorian Fireplace?

Once your fireplace has been restored, it is vital that you keep up the maintenance of your Victorian fireplace to prolong its lifespan and ensure that it remains the centrepiece of your home. It would be a good idea to schedule in a visit from a professional chimney sweep at least once a year to keep your fireplace in top shape.

Your Victorian fireplace can be kept in pristine condition by removing spillages or potential stains with grate polish and two separate cloths: one to apply the polish, and one to buff it off. Be careful to avoid cleaning your fireplace with water; as the insert consists mainly of exposed cast iron, prolonged exposure to water will cause it to rust and decay.

How Long Will a Restored Victorian Fireplace Last?

A restored Victorian fireplace is a long-term investment and can come at considerable cost – so you would be right to expect it to promote as much longevity as possible.

The cast iron makeup of Victorian fireplaces gives them the benefit of being extremely robust, meaning that they should be able to handle being pride of place within your home without any problems.

With sufficient maintenance, there is no reason why you would ever have to replace your antique Victorian fireplace, making it a lasting addition to your family living room or bedroom. By following the tips above, you can preserve the unique characteristics of your fireplace for decades to come.

The Antique Fireplace Company has been restoring and selling Victorian fireplaces for years, holding one of the country’s most comprehensive collections of antique fireplaces and accessories, from Edwardian to Art Déco styles.

Contact us today to discuss your requirements for a restored antique Victorian fireplace within your home. Boasting a wide variety of sizes and styles, there’s something suitable for every room available to view in our showroom, open Wednesday to Saturday from 10am until 5pm.