Loading... Please wait...Andirons hold up the firewood so that a draft of air can pass around it, allowing proper burning (thus minimizing smoke). They typically stand upon short legs and are usually connected with an upright guard. The guard keeps the logs in the fireplace as they burn and settle. Andirons date back hundreds of years and were solely used prior to the invention of the fireplace grate. Add a pair of andirons to your fireplace to create a traditionally vintage look.