How to Measure for Gas Logs

Gas logs purchased as an insert for a fireplace need to the correct size in order for them to function properly and look good. Logs that are too big will not get enough air to burn efficiently, and logs that are too small will work but won't look as good. One thing that you'll need to keep in mind when measuring for gas logs is to account for all the dimensions of your firebox.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Find the depth of the firebox -- the inside of the fireplace where the logs will be placed -- with a tape measure. Place the end of the tape measure at the rear of the firebox and measure to the firebox opening.

2. Find the height of the firebox opening with the tape measure. Place the end of the tape measure on the top of the opening and measure the distance to the bottom of the opening.

3. Find the width of the firebox with the tape measure. Place the end of the tape measure on the left side of the firebox and measure the distance to the right side.

4. Subtract 6 inches from the measurement in Step 3. This will ensure that you allow enough of a gap on both sides of the gas logs for air circulation.

5. Search for a gas log that is the appropriate width and will also fit within the depth and height measurements of your firebox.

Tips & Warnings

• Manufacturers of gas logs typically include the dimensions of the unit on the product description.

• If the gas logs are too high, the unit may look out of proportion when set in the fireplace.

References

• Fireplaces Now: Measuring for Gas Logs
• Fines Gas: How to Measure for Gas Logs