A fireplace works well only when the parts around it are right. This guide covers the fireplace accessories, supplies and flue components Cape Town homeowners need before the first fire of winter, and which ones are worth buying at the same time as the fireplace.
The flue: the part you cannot skip
The flue (chimney pipe) carries smoke out of the house and draws air into the fire. A wrong diameter, too many bends or a short stack gives poor draw, smoky rooms and a dirty window. Our flue range includes pipe, collars and insulated sections, and we size them to the fireplace and the roof.
When you compare quotes, look for these items in writing:
- Pipe diameter and total length
- Insulated or double-skin sections where the flue passes through the ceiling and roof
- A flashing and storm collar to keep rain out
- A cowl or cap at the top
- A starter collar that matches your fireplace outlet
Essential fireplace accessories
| Accessory | What it does | Buy it when |
|---|---|---|
| Fireguard or screen | Keeps children and pets away from the glass and flames | You have children, pets or a low-set unit |
| Fireplace tool set (poker, shovel, brush) | Tends the fire and removes ash | Always, with your first fire |
| Ash bucket with lid | Stores ash safely until it is completely cold | Always |
| Log holder or basket | Keeps dry wood near the fire | You burn wood |
| Heat-resistant gloves | Handle hot doors and logs | Always |
| Firelighters and kindling | Start the fire quickly without paraffin or petrol | Always |
| Flue brush and rods | Clean the chimney before winter | Before each winter, or book a sweep |
| Fire brick | Lines the firebox of some wood burners; replace when cracked | When a unit's brick cracks or crumbles |
| Fireplace glass cleaner | Clears soot from the window | Regularly |
Never use petrol, paraffin or spirits to start or revive a fire.
Accessories for gas and pellet fireplaces
Gas fireplaces need a gas certificate of conformity from the installer, a safe gas supply and an occasional service. Ask about decorative logs or stones that are rated for your specific unit; do not mix parts between models. See our gas fireplaces.
Pellet stoves need a dry place to store pellets, a small ash vacuum and regular cleaning of the burn pot. See our pellet fireplaces and biomass range.
Buy supplies with the fireplace or separately?
Buy the flue kit and safety items with the fireplace so the installer can fit and certify them together. Tools, baskets and cleaning items can be added later. If you only need parts for an existing fireplace, bring the make and model, a photo and the flue diameter to our Bellville showroom, or contact us and we will advise on what fits.
Fireplace maintenance checklist before winter
- Have the flue swept and inspected.
- Check the door seal and glass for cracks.
- Replace cracked fire brick.
- Clear the ash pan and vent.
- Test your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm.
- Stock dry, seasoned wood or pellets.
Get it fitted properly
If you are replacing a flue or adding a new fireplace, our team installs within 200 km of Cape Town. Typical installation runs from R6 500 to R12 000 excluding VAT for freestanding units and R12 000 to R25 000 for built-in inserts, depending on flue length and access. Read our installation page, the fireplace shop guide or the wood burner and pellet stove guide.
Showroom: 189 Durban Road, Bellville. Monday to Friday 8:00 to 17:00, Saturday 8:00 to 13:00. Phone 021 945 3636, WhatsApp 068 956 0320.
Frequently asked questions
What size flue do I need? It depends on the fireplace outlet. Most wood burners specify a flue diameter in the manual, and the installer should match it exactly.
How often should I replace fire brick? Only when it cracks, crumbles or no longer fits tightly. Check it each winter.
Do I need a flue for a gas fireplace? Most gas fireplaces need a flue or vent, and the type depends on the model. Your installer will confirm this.
Can I fit accessories myself? Tools, baskets and guards, yes. Flues and gas connections should be installed by a qualified installer.
