how to install fireplace doors

Fireplace doors are great as they ensure that your fireplace is a safer area which is ideal if you live in a household with small children and pets.

However, installing a fireplace door can differ depending on the material and model that you have purchased meaning that there isn't one set of instructions that will work on every door.

Therefore, if you have lost your installation instructions or have a new fireplace door that needs to be installed, this guide will help you to properly fit in your door.

We have gathered instructions for both aluminum and steel doors as well as additional instructions on how to make adjustments should you need to.

If you have it, always read your instruction manual before attempting to install your fireplace door so you can have a better chance of successful and safe installation with no problems.

This is because some manuals may have specific tools and materials required but if you don't have your manual then these instructions will give you the best chance of success.

No matter what material you are working with, always make sure that your fireplace is completely cool before proceeding to ensure that you are being as safe as possible.

Installing An Aluminum Fireplace Door

Firstly, we'll be looking at installing an aluminum fireplace door. Before we delve into the step-by-step guidance, here is a list of tools you will need for the installation:

Electric or cordless drill
Hammer
Phillips head screwdriver
Safety goggles
Tape measure
5/16 inch masonry drill bit
7/16 inch ratchet wrench

Here are the instructions on how to install your aluminum fireplace door:

Removing the contents

Safely remove the contents from the packaging and make sure that nothing is scratched, especially the glass components.

Read your installation manual

If you have one to hand, always double-check your installation manual to familiarize and refresh yourself with the instructions. This is also handy as you can make sure that you have the appropriate materials and tools ready.

Sizing up the door

Carefully lift the door out of the box by its sides to prevent any damage from happening and size it up against your fireplace so you can be sure that it is the correct size before installing.

Bending the C-clamp brackets

Bend your C-clamp brackets until it becomes a U-shape and hold it with the opening towards you.

Inserting the C-clamp brackets

Insert the brackets into the specified area on the door by using a little bit of pressure before bending it slightly backward which will then lock it into its place.

Marking the drill holes

Mark the various points on your fireplace where you need to drill your holes which should be around four in total. Make sure that the holes are located between 3 to 6 inches from the bottom and top as well as 2 to 6 inches from the face of the fireplace.

Drill the holes

Drill the holes using your masonry drill bit and make sure that the holes are around 1 ¾ inches deep so the screws will be secure.

Inserting the lead anchors

Insert your lead anchors into the holes and tap them in place using a hammer which will ensure that they are flush with the fireplace.

Attaching the mounting straps

Attach your mounting straps into the C-race which will ensure that they are aligned with the mounting hole so the door will fit properly.

Secure the bracket

Secure the brackets into the fixture using your 7/16 inch wrench without tightening them.

Installing the door

Using each bracket, install one side of your door, and then using the brackets on the other side, attach the other side of the door. This will ensure that the door is fully aligned with the fireplace.

Adjustments

If you need to make any adjustments, make sure that you tighten the fixtures properly using your tools to ensure that you are being as safe as possible.

Also, always wear your safety goggles which will mean that you are not putting yourself at risk in case any screws come loose unexpectedly.

Installing A Steel Fireplace Door

One of the most common materials for fireplace doors is steel. This is because steel is highly durable and reliable as it can resist high temperatures. Here are the tools that you will need to install your steel fireplace door:

Electric or cordless drill
Felt-tip marker
Hammer
Phillips head screwdriver
Safety goggles
5/16 inch masonry drill bit
⅜ inch Allen wrench and ratchet wrench

Here are the instructions on how to install your steel fireplace door:

Removing the contents

Carefully remove the contents and make sure that you don't scratch any delicate materials such as the glass components.

Reading through the instruction manual

Read through the instruction manual again and make sure that you have everything you need to install the door correctly and safely.

Take out the door

Remove the door from the box by the sides to prevent the door from getting damaged and size it up against the fireplace so you can be sure that it will fit properly.

Attaching the brackets

Attach the brackets on both sides making sure that they are level and symmetrical.

Bending the brackets

Bend the brackets backward and inward so that they can fit into the fireplace properly and securely.

Marking your drill holes

Hold your door into the opening and mark where your drill holes will go with a felt-tip marker for all four brackets.

Drilling your mounting holes

Using your 5/16 inch masonry drill bit, drill the mounting holes and make sure that they are 1 ¾ inch deep.

Inserting the lead anchors

Insert your lead anchors in the holes by tapping them in with the hammer and make sure that they are flush with the fireplace.

Inserting the lag screws

Insert your lag screws into the lead anchors via the brackets using a ⅜ inch ratchet wrench so the screws are completely secure which will hold the door in place.

Adjustments

If you need to make any adjustments, make sure that you are wearing your safety goggles and that you use the appropriate tools to tighten or loosen any components safely and carefully.