Regular wood stove gasket replacement is important because it helps maintain your unit’s efficiency. If the gasket is old and worn down, your unit will breathe too much air and burn wood quickly. This will cause your unit to mow through fuel and decrease the integrity of your cast or steel due to over firing.
Find the correct rope gasket thickness & length for your wood stove or wood fireplace insert
Step one of finding the correct gasket for your wood hearth appliance is to determine the make & model. Most units have a ratings plate with the make, model and serial number of your wood stove or wood insert. Take your cell phone and snap a picture (w/ flash) to capture this important information. Wood stoves usually have a ratings plate on the back. Wood inserts typically have them slid underneath the unit.
Step two of locating the right rope gasket for your wood hearth unit is to refer to the owner’s manual for the size of gasket required for your unit. Every wood stove and wood insert has an owner’s manual easily found online. We like Manuals Lib, this website has nearly every wood stove or wood fireplace insert owner’s manual under the sun.
Step three of finding the best gasket for your wood stove or wood insert is to determine the length and size of gasket from your owner’s manual. (Refer to step 2.)
Step four is to call The Stove Shop 610-935-9334 to order wood stove gasket. Chances are, we have your rope gasket in stock, but in the case that we do not, we can absolutely get it ordered and contact you when it arrives. You can also check out some of our favorite places to buy stove and fireplace replacement parts!
Step five is to come to The Stove Shop showroom located at 20 E. Pothouse Rd. Phoenixville, PA 19460. We have wood stove rope gasket in addition to wood stoves from Vermont Castings and Quadra-Fire.
Now, it is time to safely install the wood stove rope gasket!
How to properly install rope gasket in your wood stove or wood fireplace insert?
Installing a rope gasket in your wood stove or wood fireplace insert is an essential maintenance task that helps ensure the efficiency and safety of your heating system. A worn-out gasket can lead to air leaks, reducing the stove’s efficiency and increasing the risk of smoke entering your home.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly install a rope gasket:
1. Gather Your Materials – New rope gasket of the correct diameter and length for your stove or insert. Gasket adhesive designed for high temperatures. Scissors or a sharp knife to cut the gasket. A wire brush or sandpaper to clean the groove. Protective gloves to keep your hands clean and safe.
2. Remove the Old Gasket – Open the stove or insert door and locate the old gasket. It’s usually seated in a groove around the door’s perimeter. Carefully remove the old gasket. You may need to use a screwdriver or pliers to start, but be gentle to avoid damaging the groove. Clean out any residue or adhesive left in the groove using a wire brush or sandpaper. The surface must be clean for the new adhesive to bond properly.
3. Prepare the New Gasket – Measure the groove where the gasket will go to determine the length of rope gasket you need. Add a couple of inches to ensure you have enough. Cut the gasket to length with scissors or a sharp knife. (We will do for you when purchasing your gasket at The Stove Shop. Have a knife handy during installation to cut of the excess gasket.)
4. Apply Adhesive – Apply a bead of high-temperature gasket adhesive inside the groove. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the adhesive you’re using, as some may require a waiting period before placing the gasket. Work in sections if the adhesive sets quickly.
5. Install the Gasket – Starting at one end, press the rope gasket firmly into the groove. Make sure it’s seated evenly all the way around. For corners or curves, gently bend the gasket without stretching it, to maintain its thickness and effectiveness. If your stove has a specific point where the gasket ends meet, align them as required. Some manufacturers recommend slightly overlapping the ends, while others suggest butting them together without overlap.
6. Trim and Secure – Once the gasket is fully seated, trim any excess material at the ends to ensure a perfect fit. Close the door to press the gasket into place and allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions—usually 24 hours before firing up the stove.
7. Test for Leaks – After the adhesive has cured, check the seal by closing the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily with the door closed, the seal may not be tight enough, and you should check the gasket for gaps or uneven areas.
Dollar Bill Test – Confirm wood stove gasket is installed safely!
Our favorite way to determine if wood stove rope gasket is properly installed is with the dollar bill test. After installing the gasket and waiting for it to dry, close your wood stove on a dollar bill.
- Pull on the dollar bill and if it slips out, your gasket is not thick enough.
- If the bill slides out slowly with resistance, your gasket is installed correctly.
- If the dollar bill doesn’t budge or rips then your gasket is too thick or not snugly fitted in the grooves of your hearth appliance.
Check out these videos for examples of the dollar bill test in action:
Since 1977, The Stove Shop’s mission has been to help our customers stay warm & save money. Serving Chester county, Delaware County and Montgomery County Pennsylvania.
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