How to install Fireplace Doors (User’s Guide)

Have you ever wanted to install a fireplace door but were unsure how to go about it? It can be an intimidating process, but we’ve created this guide that will walk you through the entire installation process step-by-step. If you follow these instructions and use the right tools, your new fireplace doors should last for many years!

Do you want to make your fireplace look like a professional installed it? If so, installing fire place doors may be the answer to your problems. Fireplace doors will not only improve the appearance of your fireplace, but they will also help prevent heat from escaping into other rooms in your house. This guide is designed for people who are looking for instructions on how to install their own fireplace doors.

What are Fireplace Doors and how do they work?

Fireplace doors are also known as fire screens, fireplace screens or inserts. These devices help protect your hearth and home from flying sparks by preventing them from escaping the fireplace opening while still allowing heat to escape up into the living space. Fireplace doors can be made of several different types of materials including; stainless steel, aluminum alloy (powder coated), cast iron, glass or tempered safety glass.

Stainless steel fireplace doors are typically the least expensive option. The overall appearance of these products is utilitarian and will not add beauty to your hearth design, however they generally provide great value for the price.

Aluminum alloy (powder coated) fireplace screens offer a very different look than stainless steel while still providing durability and affordability. These fire screen doors are lightweight, easy to install and come in a variety of styles including some that mimic wood designs.

Cast iron fireplace doors are by far the most beautiful option available on today’s market. These products provide homeowners with an elegant look for their hearth design while still providing safety from flying sparks. They can be powder coated or painted which allows homeowners to further customize the fireplace screens appearance.

Glass or tempered safety glass fireplace doors offer a look somewhere between aluminum alloy and cast iron fireplaces. These products are very easy to operate as they open with a simple push, pull or slide motion depending on the style you choose. They also come in several different styles including those that mimic wood designs.

What are the benefits of using a Fireplace Door?

The benefits of using a fireplace door are many, but the primary reasons you should install one on your wood-burning stove or fireplace is for safety and convenience. For example, doors allow you to control airflow into your hearth more easily by blocking it off when not in use. They also help reduce drafts that can cause carbon monoxide poisoning and heat loss in your home.

In addition, a door can improve the aesthetics of your fireplace or wood-burning stove by hiding the flames and embers when not in use. This can give your room a more finished look and make it easier to enjoy the fire without having to worry about sparks or flying debris. Finally, a door will protect your floor from burning embers that may fall out of the fireplace during a fire.

Things you need for installation a Fireplace Door

A Fireplace Door
Tape Measure
Level
Plywood or other sturdy surface to place the door on while you work.
Circular Saw or Jigsaw (optional)
Drill and bits
Screwdriver or drill bit that can drive screws into wood
Paint or Stainer (optional)
Newspaper (to protect the floor)
Pencil
Marker
Chisel (optional)
Hammer (optional).

Once you have all of your materials gathered, it is time to start the installation process. The first step is to measure the door opening.

How to install a Fireplace Door (Step by Step)?

Remove the old door if there is one by prying it off the fireplace opening with a screwdriver.
Measure the width and height of the fireplace opening.
Purchase a new door that is slightly smaller than the opening so that it will fit snugly.
If you are installing a bi-fold door, measure the width and height of each door.
Draw a diagram to help you remember where all your fireplace parts will be placed. This step is very important as it ensures that everything goes in place correctly.
Hold up one edge of the lower track against the bottom inside corner of the rectangular opening with its top surface flush with the top inside corner of the opening.
Slide one end of an upper track onto a lower track and push it up against the bottom surface of the upper door leaf (the area between doors). The exterior edge should be flush with that on the other side. When installing bi-fold doors, place both tracks together; you will install only one upper track.
Using a level, make sure the tracks are plumb (vertical) and then drill pilot holes through the Masonite into the framing members. If you have bi-fold doors, also drill pilot holes in each end of the upper track.
Attach the tracks to the fireplace opening with lag screws.
If you have a bi-fold door, attach the strap hinges to the upper track. The screws should be inserted at an angle so that they will go into the edge of the Masonite on top and bottom (or side if your door has panels).
Open both doors and mark the screw locations on the inside surfaces of the door leaves with a pencil.
Remove the screws and hinges from the strap hinges.
Drill pilot holes in the door leaves at the locations you marked and then reattach the straps using the screws. Make sure that the screws are tight against the door leaves so that they will not come loose over time.

Installation Tips

When mounting fire doors, make sure that the hinges are properly aligned. Also ensure that each hinge is tightened down as you go along to avoid any misalignment.
While installing fireplace doors, it’s crucial to have an accurate measurement of the opening for your door in order to get a tight closure when done with installation.
When cutting the frame to fit, you must measure twice and cut once. It’s best practice to leave at least a quarter of an inch clearance around each opening so that it can be easily adjusted for optimal fitting later on.
If you’re not comfortable with doing the installation yourself, it’s best to call in a professional for help. This will ensure that your doors are installed properly and safely.
And that’s it! With these simple tips, you’ll be able to install your new fireplace doors in no time at all. Enjoy!
Make sure to measure the opening with a measuring tape. Also, make sure that you record these measurements and keep them in case of future reference.
If at any point during installation you are confused about how something should be done or if it does not turn out right, then do not hesitate to call for assistance from someone more experienced.
If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, then it’s best to call in a professional for help.
If at any point during installation you are confused about how something should be done or if it does not turn out right, then do not hesitate to call for assistance from someone more experienced.
When cutting the frame to fit, you must measure twice and cut once. It’s best practice to leave at least a quarter of an inch clearance around each opening so that it can be easily adjusted for optimal fitting later on.
Make sure that the hinges are properly aligned when mounting fire doors, and also make sure to tighten them down as you go along to avoid any misalignment.
If at any point during installation you are confused about how something should be done or if it does not turn out right, then do not hesitate to call for assistance from someone more experienced.
When installing fireplace doors, make sure that each hinge is tightened down as you go along to avoid any misalignment. Also ensure that the hinges are properly aligned.

Why you should have a professional install your Fireplace Doors?

Paid professionals have the necessary tools and experience to get this job done right. Many homeowners do it themselves, but spend an unneeded amount of time trying to install Fireplace Doors. It’s better if you hire a professional who knows what they are doing so your doors can be installed correctly without too much hassle or frustration for you. You can read our blog about How to Install Fireplace Doors if you’re interested in doing it yourself, but be advised that you should have experience before attempting this project.

The best way to clean up the area around your new Fireplace Door Installation

is to make sure that the surface is clear of any debris or obstructions. If you have a brick fireplace, you will want to use a chisel and hammer to remove any excess mortar around the opening before installing your new door.

If you are using a prefabricated metal fire place, there is usually a metal surround that needs to be removed before the door can be installed. Make sure to remove all of the screws or bolts that hold the surround in place, and then set it aside.

Once you have cleared the area, it is time to install your new door. If you are using a metal door, make sure that the hinges are on the correct side before you install the door.

Once you have your new Fireplace Door Installation in place, make sure to prime and paint it before using it for its intended purpose. You can use a primer that is specific for painting metal surfaces or an oil-based enamel paint that will withstand high temperatures. If you are not sure what kind of paint would work best, ask a sales representative at your local hardware store.

Most Fireplace Door Installation require you to attach the door handle that is supplied with it before using it for its intended purpose. If yours did not come equipped with one, make sure that you get a handle that will fit onto your particular style of fireplace and then follow the included installation directions.

Fireplace Door Installation come in a variety of styles and materials, so it is important that you choose the right kind for your particular fireplace. If the fireplace has been exposed to high temperatures frequently or if it tends to get dirty easily, make sure that you select one with an interior finish made specifically for easy cleaning and care.

Environmental Protection

One of the benefits of installing fireplace doors is that you can help protect the environment. By keeping the heat in your fireplace, you don’t have to use as much energy to heat your home, which means fewer emissions from power plants. In addition, by trapping harmful particulates and gases inside your fireplace, you keep them from entering your home and polluting the air you breathe.

Installing fireplace doors is a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and protect the environment at the same time. If you’re ready to start enjoying these benefits, follow our easy guide on how to install fireplace doors.

To begin, remove the old door from the fireplace.

Safety Tips

Keep the fireplace clear of anything that can catch fire.
Do not use your generator and extension cords in wet conditions and never operate them near water.
Don’t overload circuits or outlets with too many appliances, lights, etc. This is especially important when using power strips to connect multiple items together.
Always use caution when cooking indoors, including using an exhaust fan over the stove.
Make sure your smoke detectors are working and have fresh batteries. Test them monthly.
Keep flammable materials such as paint, gasoline, cleaners and other household chemicals away from heat sources like stoves, ovens, furnaces and fireplaces.
Never leave candles burning unattended. Extinguish them before leaving the room or going to bed.
Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home and check the batteries regularly. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled.
If a fire does start, remember to stay calm and use the following tips:
If you can see the fire, try to put it out with a fire extinguisher. Be sure you know how to use one before trying.
If the fire is too big or if you can’t put it out, get out of the house and call 911.

FAQs

How do I install the fireplace doors?

Fireplace doors are very easy to install. You’ll need a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench or two pairs of pliers, but that is all you will really need to get your job done quickly! Our installation guide shows what tools you might want to have on hand before you begin.

Can I install the doors myself?

Yes, absolutely! The installation process is straightforward and simple enough for even first-time do-it-yourselfers to master with ease. You won’t need any special skills or expertise, just a little time and patience on your part. Our step by step guide makes it a breeze.

What else do I need to know?

In addition, you may want to have a drill with bits on hand if you plan on attaching the doors directly into masonry or brick surfaces. A pencil and level will also come in handy for drawing your lines before drilling holes through mortar! Other than that, installing fireplace doors is just like putting together any other project. Just take your time and follow each step one by one!

How long will it take to install?

The average homeowner can expect installation times of anywhere from 15 minutes all the way up to an hour or more, depending on their level of comfort with DIY projects. It really is that simple! Our guide will take you through the entire process step by step.

What are some of the potential hazards?

There are a few things to watch out for when installing fireplace doors, such as sharp edges on metal frames and hot glass surfaces. But with a little caution and common sense, these can easily be avoided. Our guide includes tips on how to avoid dangers and maximize safety.

How should I care for the doors?

Fireplace doors are very easy to maintain! All you need is a damp cloth or sponge, mild soap, maybe some window cleaner if necessary, and that’s it! Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before closing them up against humid surfaces—mold is very hard to get rid of once it starts growing.

How do I install the fireplace doors?

Can I install the doors myself?

Conclusion

Now that you know how to install your fireplace doors, it’s time to get started! Remember to take your time and be careful, so that the installation goes as smoothly as possible. And if you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re always happy to help!