Renvations Team
A fireplace barrier add style and elegance. It also improves its safety by keeping sparks and embers inside. Over time, your chimney door may wear out, become damaged, or simply need a replacement. Removing and installing a new chimney barrier may seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can easily do it yourself. In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to remove and install a fireplace door.
Why you Need Fireplace Door?
A fireside barrier is an essential component of any fireside, offering several benefits to homeowners. Firstly, it enhances the safety of your home by acting as a barrier between the fire and your living space. By preventing sparks and embers from escaping, it reduces the risk of accidental fires, protecting your family and property. A fireside barrier improves the energy efficiency of your home by preventing heat loss through the chimney when the furnace is not in use. This, in turn, helps you save on heating costs and reduces your carbon footprint.
Thirdly, a furnace barrier can add to the aesthetic appeal of your chimney, giving your living space a more stylish and sophisticated look specially if you are not using any fireplace wallpaper. Fireside barriers come in various styles and finishes, allowing you to choose one that matches your home’s existing decor. Fireside doors make it easier to maintain your fireside by preventing debris and ash from escaping and accumulating in your living space. This saves you time and effort on cleaning and maintenance tasks.
Covers help extend the life of your fireplace by protecting it from damage caused by moisture, weathering, and debris. This, in turn, saves you money on repairs and replacements in the long run. Overall, a furnace door is an essential component of any fireside, providing a range of benefits to homeowners, including safety, energy efficiency, aesthetics, ease of maintenance, and longevity.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Measuring tape
- New fireside gate
- Furnace gate mounting hardware (if not included with the new door)
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
How to Remove and Install A Fireplace Door?
Below are methods to install and remove fireside barrier:
Step 1: Measure Your Chimney Opening
Before purchasing a new fireside gate, you need to measure the height and width of your fireplace opening. Measure the width across the top and bottom of the opening, as it may vary slightly. Also, measure the height from the bottom of the chimney floor to the bottom of the lintel bar or the top of the opening. It’s important to get accurate measurements to ensure that the new fireplace gate fits properly.
Step 2: Remove the Old Fireside Door
To remove the old fireside gate, locate the mounting brackets or screws that hold the gate in place. Utilize a screwdriver to remove the screws and carefully lift the gate away from the chimney. If your chimney gate has glass panels, be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves to prevent any injuries from broken glass.
Step 3: Clean the Fireplace Surround
After removing the old fireside gate, clean the chimney surround thoroughly. Remove any debris or ashes, and wipe down the area with a damp cloth. This will help prepare the area for the new fireplace door installation.
Step 4: Install the New Fireplace Gate
If the new fireside gate comes with mounting hardware, use the instructions provided to attach it to the chimney. If it doesn’t include mounting hardware, measure the distance between the mounting holes on the gate and drill corresponding holes in the fireside surround. Attach the mounting hardware to the surround using screws and anchors. Check some of the best fireplace covers.
Step 5: Adjust the Door
Once the new fireplace gate is installed, adjust it to ensure that it fits properly and opens and closes smoothly. Adjust the hinges or mounting brackets as necessary to ensure that the gate is level and secure.
Step 6: Test the Gate
Before using your fireside, test the new gate to make sure it functions properly. Open and close it several times to ensure that it operates smoothly and that the seal is tight.
Benefits of a Chimney Gate
Fireside gates are not only functional but also an aesthetic addition to any home. They add elegance and sophistication to your furnace, making it a focal point of your living space. Below are some of the benefits of installing a fireplace door:
Safety
Furnace barriers act as a barrier between your home and the fire, preventing sparks and embers from flying out and causing potential hazards. This is especially important if you have small children or pets in your home.
Energy Efficiency
Chimney doors can help increase the energy efficiency of your home by preventing heat loss through the chimney when the furnace is not in use. This can reduce your heating costs and improve the overall comfort of your home.
Aesthetics
Fireplace barriers come in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose one that complements your home’s décor. They can add a touch of sophistication and elegance to your living space, enhancing the overall look and feel of your home.
Maintenance
A chimney gate can help prevent debris and ash from escaping and accumulating in your home, making it easier to maintain your furnace. This can save you time and effort on cleaning and maintenance tasks.
Longevity
Fireplace barriers can protect your furnace from damage caused by weathering, moisture, and debris. This can help extend the life of your chimney, saving you money on repairs and replacements in the long run.
When choosing a fireplace gate, it is important to consider the size and shape of your furnace, as well as the style and finish that will best match your home’s décor. Additionally, you should ensure that the gate you choose is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the heat and wear and tear of regular use.
Conclusion
In addition to the practical benefits of furnace gates, they can also add value to your home. A well-designed and properly installed chimney barrier can increase the resale value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers. By choosing a high-quality fireplace door and ensuring it is installed correctly, you can enjoy the benefits of improved safety, energy efficiency, and style while also enhancing the overall value of your home. So, whether you’re looking to update your furnace for your own enjoyment or to boost your home’s resale value, a new furnace door is a smart investment; it will pay off in the long run.
