Does your fireplace need glass doors? Unlike other fire feature accessories, doors aren't a purely aesthetic accent. If you're considering a glass door upgrade, take a look at the questions to ask first.
Why Install Fireplace Glass? Whether you have a new fireplace or your home's existing fire feature didn't come with ready-installed glass, the top reasons to consider a door update include:
- Doors can stop sparks. A screen or glass door can stop stray sparks from entering your home. Without a physical barrier, lit embers can pose a serious fire risk.
- Doors can prevent log roll-out. Embers and stray sparks aren't the only causes of fireplace home fires. If a log rolls out of the fireplace, it can start a fire, singe your home, or burn anyone who gets in its way. A fireplace door can stop log roll-outs and keep your family safe.
- Doors make your fireplace area cleaner. The glass doors can protect the area surrounding the fireplace from soot, dirt, and debris.
- Doors increase energy efficiency. Glass doors don't only help when your fireplace is in operation. When the fire is out, the doors can protect your home from energy loss through the chimney. Simply close the doors tightly and you'll stop heat from escaping your home.
- Doors add elegance. Along with functional safety issues, glass fireplace doors add an element of elegance to your home's interior décor.
Now that you know why you should seriously consider fireplace doors, learn how to choose the right glass option for your home.
What Are Your Fireplace Door Options?
If you're ready to invest in a new fireplace door, you have options. Before you select a style, you may need to consider:
- The type of glass. What type of glass are fireplace doors made from? Tempered glass is a common material used to create a fire feature door. Tempered glass is stronger than other types of glass and won't break into jagged shards.
- The size of the opening. How large (or small) of a door does your fireplace need? If your fireplace is extremely long or a strange size, you may need a custom cut door for a firm fit.
- The type of opening mechanism. Do you prefer a folding door or a cabinet style option? Glass cabinet doors open directly out, while a bi-fold door slides and opens.
- The track. Do you want the doors to fully open away from the fireplace? To maximize the opening effect, you'll need a trackless style.
Before you decide which type of door is the best option for your fireplace, discuss the possibilities with a professional. A glass contractor can help you to choose the right product for your home's needs.
Who Should Install Your Fireplace Door?
A fireplace door may seem like a simple interior accent. But that doesn't mean the installation process is a do-it-yourself job. Even though fireplace glass doesn't involve complex machinery or sophisticated electronics systems, it still requires a professional installation. Along with helping you to find the right door, the glass contractor can:
- Install the door correctly. Failure to install the track or door correctly could leave gaps, cracks, or holes around the glass. This allows embers to escape into your home and the interior heat to leak into the chimney area.
- Save you time. A professional glass installation service gives you time to spend with your family, relax, or work.
- Save you money. Even though you'll need to pay for the installation, a professional job can save you money in failed attempts, accidental damage, or the cost of equipment.
Not all glass installation companies are equal. If you're not sure who should install your new door, ask your potential contractor about their experience and expertise. Customer references and photos of past jobs can also help you to make a decision.
Do you need a new glass fireplace door? Contact
Bob's Glass
for more information.