How to choose glass fireplace doors.
Josh RowellFireplaces are often the focal point in the main living and entertaining area of your home. Adding a set of glass fireplace doors can completely change the aesthetic of any room while adding functionality and efficiency to your home. They come in many different styles and colors and can have unique features such as sliding glass or hand hammered finishes.
The 3 main types of fireplace doors are:
Overlap Doors: Overlap doors are perfect for most traditional brick fireplaces. Their approx. 2" wide frame allows your doors to be custom ordered and still have a little bit of wiggle room for installation. The fireplace frame will overlap the fireplace opening and a bit of insulation inside of the frame will help seal out any unwanted drafts or odors.
***A standard overlap door is a good choice for most fireplaces. However, if you burn wood, Casual Furniture World recommends a "welded iron" overlap door that can withstand the extra use and abuse of loading wood and cleaning ash***
Inside Fit Doors: Inside fit doors will, as their name suggests, fit inside the fireplace opening. The often give a more custom look, and the measurements must be very precise. Inside fit doors may be perfect for stone fireplaces where the surface in uneven as they will mount slightly behind the stone, where the smooth firebrick begins.
Reface Doors: Reface doors are specifically designed for homes that had a pre-fabricated (metal box) fireplace. These types of fireplaces became extremely popular in the early 90's and are still very common today. Reface doors utilize the existing, exposed metal to mount the door using extremely strong magnets. In just a few seconds a reface door can completely change the appearance and efficiency of a pre-manufactured fireplace (commonly known as a firebox). A reface door will offer different paneling to completely hide any exposed black metal or allow for air flow and blowers if your firebox has louvers.
Fireplace doors offer a range of benefits that enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your living space. Completely customizable, they serve as an elegant focal point, available in various designs and finishes that can complement any home décor, whether you prefer a classic, rustic look or a sleek, modern vibe. Beyond style, these doors also provide practical advantages, such as preventing drafts and blocking unwanted odors from entering your living area when the fireplace is not in use. By creating a seal, fireplace doors help maintain indoor air quality and temperature, leading to a cozier, more comfortable environment while also increasing energy efficiency.