How to Install a Wood Stove Door Seal

Wood stoves work better with a secure seal on the door.

Adding a seal to a wood stove door increases the stove's efficiency by stopping air leaks. A seal also helps the stove burn more effectively and allows for longer burn times. Adding a seal or gasket to a wood stove door keeps the door more clean, which is especially important if the stove door has a glass window. Proper installation is important to get the most benefits from the seal.

Things You'll Need

• Gasket cement or adhesive
• Putty knife
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Utility knife
• Solvent or steel wool

Instructions

1. Pry up the stove door hinges with a flat-head screwdriver to remove them. Carefully remove the door and set it down in a clean area.

2. Remove an existing door seal by carefully prying it up with a putty knife. Use cement-removing solvent to clean up any residue. If residue is hard to remove, use steel wool.

3. Spread gasket cement around the interior of the door where the seal will be applied. Be careful not to get the cement outside of the seal area.

4. Press the seal into the gasket cement, starting in one corner and working your way around.

5. Clean up any gasket cement that seeps out from under the seal with a clean cloth. Allow the door seal cement to dry according to the instructions on the gasket cement package.

6. Place the door into the hinges and replace the hinge pins. If the pins will not go in easily, gently rock the door back and forth as you press in the hinge pins.

7. Close the door and make sure the seal is snug and airtight. Trim away any excess seal with a sharp utility knife. If trimming is necessary, clean up the excess gasket cement, using a gasket cement solvent and a clean cloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Leave the wood stove door open until the adhesive has completely set up.

• Always make sure the stove is turned completely cool before servicing.

References

• Lennox Hearth Products: Use and Care Manuals
• Osburn Manufacturing: Owners Manuals