Hello all!
I’m working at a job right now, at a 1930’s (ish?) house that has a steel/iron fireplace which is a fake fireplace. It has an covering that covers the whole opening except for a few small slits. Inside is three sockets to screw three light bulbs into. It is attached to the original knob and tube wiring (which we’re removing). It is a fairly attractive piece.
My question is this. Does it have any value for salvaging. It is rare, I think, so maybe it is valuble to someone?
At the same time, the original steel radiators are getting removed for more modern looking ones. The rads have a decorative design on them. Are they worth anything if refinished? (something my new multimaster could handle 🙂
Thank you in advance for any enlightenment.
Dave Baartman
Replies
They absolutely have value! Don't know where you live, but check the yellow pages for architectural salvage, or just salvage.
Not sure whate you mean by steel radiators - usually they're cast iron. I don't think a Multimaster is the way to go for refinishing, though. Typically they get sandblasted and then painted or powdercoated. If I were you, though, I wouldn't put the effort into it - leave that for the salvage place or their customers.
I doubt you'll get a lot of money for the stuff, but you'll keep them out of a landfill and make some old house owners very happy when they find those things at the salvage place.
Dave
Our 1887 Octagon House
I saw one in a condo once. the owner had to convince me it was fake. seems like a nice piece for a basement remodel, where you at?
It is a very nice looking thing. It doesn't seem to have been used, like most old fireplaces, because nothing got burned in it. So its in fantastic shape. It would be great for getting a classic look in an area where you don't have much room because theres no requirements for fire, because its just a light. I, too, was fooled by its apperance as a fireplace.I am in Toronto, Ontario.