What Is a Fireplace Riser Bar?
Installing and maintaining a fireplace takes several kinds of tools and components. Burning items indoors without a complete fireplace installation can be very dangerous. While some fireplaces don't include doors, others have glass doors that control a fire's temperature and contain flames for increased safety. Some fireplace doors, however, require riser bars to function properly. Does this Spark an idea?
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Description
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A fireplace riser bar is a thin strip of metal that is about as wide as the fireplace. It attaches to the bottom of a fireplace door to help seal off the fireplace's interior. Most fireplace riser bars are about 2 inches wide and 2 feet long, though sizes vary by model. With a fireplace riser bar installed, a fireplace door continues to operate normally but with additional material at the bottom.
Function
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The riser bar enlarges the fireplace door's height, serving as a safety function by keeping coals and smoke from entering the home. It also gives the fireplace door a more finished appearance by eliminating the gap that otherwise would be between the bottom of the door and the fireplace masonry. The riser bar keeps heat inside a fireplace with blowers so that a thermostat and fan can control more precisely how much heat enters the room.
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Installation
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A fireplace riser bar typically installs with two or more machine screws and hex nuts. The screws pass through holes in a flat ridge at the bottom of the door and corresponding holes on a similar ridge at the top of the riser bar. Tightening the screws creates a strong seal that effectively extends the fireplace door several inches downward. To determine if your fireplace needs a riser bar, measure the fireplace's opening and compare it to the height of the door you plan to install.
Types
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Most fireplace riser doors have the same metal construction, screw hole mounting and general shape. They are made in a wide range of lengths, finishes and brands to match existing fireplace doors, however. Fireplace riser bars are available in glossy and flat finishes of black, bronze and silver colors. Ideally, a riser bar blends with the door and matches existing fireplace hardware.
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References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
