Changing the gasket on your fireplace can be easy, but how do you know which size you need? This article will show you how to replace your gasket and test your own. Depending on the size of your door, you might even want to test a few different sizes before you buy a new one. Follow these steps to find the right gasket for your fireplace. You’ll be glad you did when you find it works perfectly.
Replace a gasket
Getting rid of a gasket on your fireplace’s door is an easy task, but if you’re not sure how to do it, keep reading! Follow these steps to replace a gasket on your fireplace door. Before beginning, make sure you have a screwdriver ready. Next, cut the gasket material to fit into the door groove without stretching it or clumping. Cut the gasket about an inch longer than the actual length of the door. Make sure the two ends fit snugly together. Once the material has been cut, apply gasket cement to the edge of the channel and up the sides of the groove. Wait 24 hours until the gasket has completely dried.
If the old gasket material is too thick and is sticking out, use tweezers to pry it off. If the material is greasy, you can use a vacuum cleaner or a wire brush to remove it. Make sure the new gasket is wet so that it will seal properly when it is installed onto the door frame. Once the new gasket is in place, test it to ensure it is tight and provides minimal smoke.
Make a gasket
The easiest way to make a gasket for a fireplace door seal is to cut a strip of fabric long enough to go around the entire opening. Place the strip in the channel of the door. Do not glue the strips together. You should be able to move them quickly. Cut the strips so that their ends overlap, but do not pull them too tightly. If you accidentally pull the strip, it may come out. To prevent this, cut it short. If it tears, use masking tape to hold it in place until it dries.
Next, apply the cement to the channel around the door. Make sure to squeeze the cement evenly. If you used a cartridge, shake it before cutting the nozzle. Apply the adhesive to both sides of the butt joint. Let the cement cure for at least 24 hours before replacing the fireplace door. If it does not, you will need to apply some heat to the gasket. Make sure to follow the directions on the package.
Test a gasket
To check a fireplace door seal gasket’s integrity, you should first examine the actual material of the door seal. While doors have a wide range of colors and materials, the process is similar no matter what type of gasket is being used. Visual examination can reveal apparent issues, such as loose sections, tears, crystalized sections, or excessive fraying. If one of these conditions is present, it’s time to replace the gasket.
To test a fireplace door seal gasket, lay the new gasket in the groove, starting at the long edge. Make sure the gasket is not bunching or stretching, and gently press it into place with a flat-head screwdriver. If the door is still not sealed, use a bill to verify the new gasket’s fit. When the gasket is properly installed, it should fit perfectly.