Fireplace Accessories FAQs

 

 

Can the stone mantels be used with a ventless fireplace?

No, these stone mantels are NOT recommended for vent-free fireplaces.

Back to top

---

Do I have to assemble the fireplace mantel myself?

It depends on the products. Some already come preassembled while others are not. Look at 'Features & Benefits' under the product description to find out if the mantel you are interested in comes assembled. Or give our customer service team a call.

Back to top

---

Does the stainless steel mantel get hot or will it deflect the heat? I'm interested in putting a TV above the mantel.

The mantel shelf does little to deflect the heat of a fireplace.  These shelves have to be installed at a higher height, pushing up your TV.  This could cause neck pain when viewing your TV.  Also, the mantel will not protect the TV from the heat and smoke.  We would recommend installing a fireplace hood to safeguard anything above your fireplace. 

Back to top

---

Is the charcoal powdered finish on the steel mantel shelves closest to gunmetal gray?

Yes, that finish would be the closest color to gunmetal.

Back to top

---

Can the steel mantel shelves be mounted on a brick fireplace?

Absolutely. Just make sure when installing to anchor the mantel into the mortar joints. If you drill directly into the bricks, the stone might split and crack.

Back to top

---

If the mantel is steel, wouldn't the top of the mantel get hot from the fireplace?

The mantel shelf needs to be installed with the appropriate height clearance above your firebox to avoid this issue. The proper measurements for the clearance can be found in the owner's manual.

Back to top

---

What is a corbel?

A corbel is used as a support, bracket, or decorative accent that projects from a wall underneath a structure.

Corbels are traditionally used to as ornamental supports underneath roofs, along with columns, underneath ledges, and many more applications.

We offer a range of corbels that can be used with mantels, shelves, and other home decor!

Back to top

---

Where can I use corbels in decorating?

• FIREPLACES: Corbels are used to add a special touch to fireplace mantels, underneath mantel shelves, or to create a transition to the ceiling or molding!
• KITCHENS: Install corbels underneath cabinets to accent backsplashes or under counter overhangs, decorate table legs, or frame your windows.
• HOME: Add a corbel in door frames or along entryways to act a room divider, create a stationary desk by placing a tabletop above two corbels mounted against the wall, use small corbels as bookends, or dress up windows and roof gables!

Back to top

---

What are the best fireplace doors for gas logs?

• Gas fireplace logs are designed to add ambiance to your wood-burning fireplace. They are crafted to resemble actual wood pieces in a variety of styles. Fine artistry and intricate details can be enjoyed in every one of these fireplace accessories as they enhance your fireside experience. Are they appropriate for your fireplace application and doors, though? Let's find out!

• THERE ARE TWO DIFFERENT TYPES OF GAS LOGS:

  • Vented gas logs are designed to be used in a fireplace that is capable of burning wood and is directly connected to a chimney (better known as a masonry fireplace). These ceramic logs use the natural airflow in your fireplace to get rid of combustion gases from the fire. When the gas logs are in use, the chimney damper must be in the fully open position, allowing 100% of the exhaust (carbon dioxide and water) to be directed up the flue and out of the house. Because of the damper position requirement, the use of masonry fireplace glass doors is required with a vented gas log setup. 
• Ventless gas logs are a little less strict when it comes to the type of fireplace that they can be used with. Vent-free models can be used in either a full masonry fireplace with the damper partially open or completely shut. They can also be used in a rated-unvented, prefabricated fireplace. Due to the fact that much of the exhaust from a fire typically enters your living space instead of exiting via the chimney, ventless gas logs are designed to burn cleaner than their vented counterparts. You won't have to worry about fumes entering your living space with these particular accessories. The vent-free log sets are compatible with any zero-clearance fireplace doors. 

Regardless if you have vented gas logs in your masonry fireplace or vent-free logs in your prefabricated unit, your fireplace doors should always be open and the mesh screens closed when using your gas logs. This promotes adequate airflow to the gas logs. Keeping your fireplace doors shut while your gas logs are in use can lead to overheating of these decorative pieces and cause damage to them and your fireplace. 

Always remember to read and follow the instructions located in the owner's manuals for both your fireplace and gas log set!

Back to top

---

Why can't I burn vented logs in a ventless fireplace?

Vented gas logs don't burn "cleanly" and give off exhaust just like a wood-burning fireplace. That is why they must be burned in a vented fireplace with the damper open so that the exhaust can go up the chimney. 

Back to top

---

Can ventless logs be used in a bedroom fireplace?

Only if your bedroom has multiple entrances/ exits. They are not approved for any room that only has one exit that may prevent one from leaving the room if there is a fire, and it's blocking the only exit.

Back to top

---

Can I use outdoor gas logs in my gas-fueled fire pit?

NO, these outdoor gas logs are for vented but covered applications only, like an outdoor fireplace.

We do have a line of fire pit log sets that are approved gas fire pits only and must be used with lava granules or coals to prevent the logs cracking and breaking from being exposed directly to the heat of the burner.

Back to top

---

How well do the outdoor logs stand up to the weather?

All log sets from R.H. Peterson's Real Fyre are made of refractory cement, which is stronger than ceramic fiber -- another common material used in log sets. The hand painting process also increases the life of the log set's paint since it is the most durable method. 

Back to top

---

What are the benefits and downsides of using match lit or pilot ignition?

Match Lit ignitions have fewer parts and there's no pilot assembly to conceal. This ignition system is also more reliable because there's no thermocouple or valve to fail. The downside is that it will require a match or lighter to be lit every time. 

Automatic Pilot ignitions can be controlled just by opening the valve because they use a small standing pilot light. They do, however, constantly use small amounts of fuel.

Back to top

 

---

Do gas coal baskets have a blower built-in to distribute the heat?

No, these gas baskets do not have blowers built into them. A lot of the heat generated by vented gas coal baskets is sucked up through the chimney. 

Back to top

---

Can I take the mesh screen out of my fireplace?

You can take the screen out, however, FireplaceDoorsOnline.com does not recommend altering your fireplace or fireplace door for safety reasons. The mesh curtain or mesh door is there to help protect you from sparks.

Back to top

---

Can I use the stainless steel mesh curtains outside?

Yes, the 19 gauge stainless steel mesh curtains work very nicely for outdoor fireplaces that are exposed to the weather.

PLEASE NOTE:  The stainless steel mesh curtains will discolor if they make direct contact with the flames or if the fire is too hot.

Back to top

---

Can I use an angled rod for my fireplace mesh curtain with my fireplace door?

If you're installing mesh curtains after your doors are already in place, and the doors did not come with curtains, you can still put in an angled curtain rod. However, do keep in mind that it will need to be installed far enough back in your firebox to provide enough clearance for your fireplace doors to close.

If you are installing the mesh curtain rod in a masonry fireplace, make sure to drill in-between the stonework and not directly into the brick. This can cause the brick to crack or shatter.

Back to top

---

Do the mesh curtain pulls come in a pack of two?

Yes, our mesh curtain pulls come in pairs.

Back to top

---

Why can't I use recessed mesh curtains with my prefabricated fireplace?

The lintel clamp that holds the lintel support bar in place is long, allowing the clamp to fit across the thick edge of the masonry stone or brick. The lintel support bar is what the curtain rod and top fender attach to.

Prefabricated fireplaces don't have a deep edge, and the lintel clamp would not have enough surface area to attach properly. 

Back to top

---

Why would I need a mesh screen with my direct vent fireplace?

The glass panel covering the front of a direct vent fireplace can get very hot. A fireplace mesh screen adds a safety barrier while also adding an extra decorative element. 

Back to top

---

Do the curved standing fireplace screens have feet?

No, the curved screens do not have any feet because they are balanced out by the curved frame. 

Back to top

---

Can I use fireplace gloves to refill or adjust logs in my fireplace when there's a fire burning?

Yes. These gloves can withstand the heat. However, for safety reasons, Fireplace Doors Online never recommends reaching into a fire while it's burning. 

Back to top

---

How will I know which grates I can use in my wood-burning fireplace?

Look at the product name to see if it's listed as a zero clearance fireplace grate. Also, read through the product description to find out if it's safe to use in wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. If you're still not sure, give us a call at the phone number listed at the bottom of our website. Or start an online chat with one of our customer service team members. 

Back to top

---

Can I use fireplace surround panels on my masonry fireplace?

Yes, fireplace surround panels can be used on both masonry and prefabricated fireplaces.

Back to top

---

Can I wash my hearth rug?

It depends on the brand, but if you purchased your rug through us, then yes! All of our hearth rugs are washable. Simply toss them in the washer with a mild detergent and lay out flat to dry.

Back to top

---