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What is the purpose of using a fireplace grate? There are several, actually. Because the wood is raised off the ground, air is sucked in from underneath, which makes the wood burn even hotter. Burned wood falls down below the grate, which creates intensely hot coals. So, the wood is burned from the bottom up.

Keeping the hottest part of the fire off the ground also protects your fireplace and extends its longevity. Keeping the logs on a grate also puts it higher up, which helps the smoke go up the chimney, cutting down on the chances of it billowing out into your home. It’s also easier to light a fire when there is room underneath to add kindling, newspaper and other fire starters.