Bonjour all.
Does anyone have any suggestions on what best to use to clean our fire canopy and the two metal chains (I think they’re iron) on the fire structure? Photos attached. Many thanks.
I’d use Zebraline for the chains, it’s principally for re-blackening cast iron stoves and is available from hardware stores. Seem to remember the UK equivalent was Zebrite.
A little goes a long way; apply, then polish (and wear disposable gloves).
3 Likes
Thanks for that Mark 
With all my steelwork such as your chains, both internal and external, I would wire brush them, then apply by brush Hammerite Smooth (from the UK). I’m a fan of Satin Black rather than Gloss, (though the latter looks great when sprayed onto air-cooled motorcycle barrel finning).
What material is your canopy made of?
2 Likes
Hammerite’s great stuff, but not for painting old cast ironwork, unless you want it to look like repro; whereas Zebraline gives a more subtle professional finish and also happens to be a lot cheaper.
3 Likes
That’s a very impressive fireplace!
For the chains, I’d recommend cleaning with an electric drill fitted with a rotary wire brush. Start with a fairly coarse one, then medium, then fine. When you’re happy with the look you’ve achieved, apply a light coat of a good wax - microcrystalline by preference. Let it dry then buff it to a suitable shine. The wax will dramatically slow down further oxidation.
Do you know what material the canopy is made from? It looks fairly delicate but I’d try a brass rotary brush on the inside to see what effect it has.
3 Likes
If all you wish to do is to remove the build up of dirt you could use Sugar Soap, CocaCola, Laundry Detergent, or WD40. Each is very effective in its own way at removing different types of muck. Just remember to start at the bottom and work UP to avoid streaking.
1 Like
(Pedantmode) Chain links are forged, not cast 
(/Pedantmode)
2 Likes
Finally a use for the wretched stuff. 
Been doing that all my life but still enjoy a good streak 
1 Like
Thanks for all the suggestions from everyone. I don’t know what the canopy is made of. Really I just want to get rid of the build up of dirt/soot from winter fires.
1 Like
Identifying what the canopy is made of… has got to be a good start.
Perhaps your chimney sweep will have an answer ??? might be worth asking during the next visit.
1 Like
Washing up liquid in warm water and a microfibre cloth. Plenty of changes of liquid and buff it dry with a clean dry cloth as a final step.
1 Like
Looks a bit like beaten steel, a magnet might help to see if its ferrous. WD 40 is good for loosening grime and then as Brian said soapy water.
It’s also very good at removing diesel from car seats.
1 Like