Cast iron can be used indoors or out, and with very little maintenance will last for years. Cast iron holds heat well, and cast iron will radiate heat even after the flames are out. There are countless designs for fireplaces from Victorian style to modern looks. The fireplaces come in any size, to fit any decor or room in the house. The fireplaces can be custom made, or individuals can shop the antiques markets to find an original.

Many companies specialize in cast iron stoves and create reproductions of Victorian era fireplaces. Imagine any room with a beautiful reproduction fireplace from a bygone era. The fireplaces do not simply look great they perform a practical function, as well. Reproduction or not the fireplaces can burn wood or coal. Proper venting is required for any fireplace. Many homeowners have their cast iron stoves inserted into their existing fireplaces. Many companies manufacture fireplaces specifically for inserting into existing traditional fireplaces.

Cast iron fireplaces of course can be purchased to stand-alone. Many country style homes will have a stove in the kitchen to take the chill out of the air. The stoves will have legs for support and will need to be properly vented. When purchasing a cast iron stove, insure it is designed to burn whatever fuel is desired, for example, coal, wood or wood pellets could be a fuel. Cast iron is designed to last practically forever. The iron will not chip or crack under normal usage.

Choosing a fireplace can be as exciting as using it for the first time. Cast iron can come in polished or dull flat finishes. Early Victorian models were cleaned using salt and lemon juice. Sprinkle the salt, and squeeze or pour the lemon juice over the surface, and scrub with a toothbrush into the crevices of any scrollwork. Cast iron is designed to withstand high heat but may show rust spots from time to time. Simply scrub the rust away with a brush or use lemon and salt. Fireplaces can also be polished using steel wool. Polishing is only done on cast iron that was manufactured to have a shine. Steel polish can be used along with the steel wool.

To help maintain the stoves lustre stove black can be used to prevent further rust and enhance the looks. Many individual in the past to cure their cast iron would apply mineral oil or cooking oil. The oil of course will burn off and create smoke. Cast iron stoves can be used outdoors to burn wood and supply heat to a patio or deck. Cast iron exposed to the elements will require care and maintenance much more often. Water will cause cast iron to rust so be sure and keep exposure to water at a minimum when using the fireplace outside.

In some instances, ceramic was used to coat cast iron. Cast iron of course is black, and many homes wanted cast iron for its heating capabilities but wanted to add colour, as well. Ceramic can withstand high heat but will chip and scratch. Individuals have painted their cast iron stoves to enhance the looks, as well. There are paints designed for high heat but will dull quickly under intense heat. Cast iron if properly cleaned and cared for will keep its looks for years to come. Keep in mind, the looks may dull, but that has nothing to do with the functionality of the stove.

Many people purchase cast iron stoves for the look of cast iron. Stove blacking compounds or stove polish will bring back that just purchased look. Clean the surfaces with a brush or steel wool in combination with lemon and salt. Apply the stove black or polish per the instructions. Apply yearly or as needed to keep those cast iron fireplaces looking brand new. The new look is now the old look.