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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Ask Mike - Total Hearth

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Ask Mike

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) -Ask Mike

We get a lot of great questions from our customers, and these ones come up often. If you ever need help beyond what’s here, feel free to reach out. We're always happy to assist.

Q: What type of glass is best for wood stoves, fireplaces, or pellet stoves?

A: It all depends on how your appliance is designed to function.

If your stove or fireplace is built for high heat — like most wood stoves, pellet stoves, and airtight fireplaces — you’ll need ceramic glass. This type of glass is engineered to handle temperatures up to 1,400°F and is often sold under brand names like Pyroceram, Neoceram, Robax, or Pyroglass. Ceramic glass has a slight amber tint, which you can see if you hold a piece of white paper behind it. While it’s heat-resistant, it’s not impact-resistant — it will still break if hit.

On the other hand, decorative fireplaces — the kind often found in new builds or spec homes with loose, bifold doors — typically use tempered glass. Tempered glass is designed for lower-heat environments and can handle temperatures up to 400°F. These fireplaces are meant more for visual ambiance than actual home heating.

Key takeaway:
If your appliance is designed to heat a room or a home, ceramic glass is the way to go. If it’s just for the glow and look of a fire, you may only need tempered glass.

 

Q: What’s the difference between ceramic glass and tempered glass, and which is right for my fireplace?

A: The key differences between ceramic glass and tempered glass come down to heat resistance, cost, safety, and intended use.

1. Heat Resistance & Best Use Cases

  • Ceramic Glass – Handles extreme temperatures up to 1,400°F, making it ideal for wood stoves, pellet stoves, and airtight fireplaces designed for home heating. Brand names include Pyroceram, Neoceram, Robax, and Pyroglass.

  • Tempered Glass – Suitable for lower heat levels, rated up to 400–450°F. It's commonly used in decorative fireplaces, especially those with bifold or “floppy” doors found in many modern homes. These units are meant more for ambiance than heating.

2. Cost Comparison

Ceramic glass is typically about twice the cost of tempered glass due to its heat-resistant materials and manufacturing process.

3. Safety & Breakage Patterns

  • Ceramic glass will crack or break into large chunks under impact.

  • Tempered glass is classified as a safety glass and shatters into tiny pieces, similar to how car windows break.

4. Appearance & Identification

  • Ceramic glass has a slight amber tint. Hold a piece of white paper behind it to spot the color.

  • Tempered glass is typically clear.

5. How Each Is Made

  • Ceramic Glass: Manufactured by adding borite to prevent thermal expansion. The mixture is melted, poured into molds, vibrated to remove air bubbles, flattened, and trimmed to precision.

  • Tempered Glass: Cut from standard annealed glass, it’s heated and cooled rapidly to strengthen it—this process "tempers" the glass but limits its heat tolerance.

Bottom line:
If your stove or fireplace is built to generate heat, ceramic glass is the safest and most effective choice. For purely decorative fireplaces, tempered glass is more appropriate and budget-friendly

Q: What’s the difference between Robax, Pyroceram, Neoceram, and Pyro-Glass?

A: Robax, Pyroceram, Neoceram, and Pyro-Glass are all brand names for ceramic glass, a heat-resistant material commonly used in wood stoves, pellet stoves, and high-efficiency fireplaces. While the names differ, the performance and specifications are nearly identical.

Key Similarities Across All Brands:

  • High Heat Tolerance:
    All brands are rated to withstand temperatures between 1,280°F and 1,400°F, making them suitable for demanding stove and fireplace environments.

  • Breakage & Tension Points:
    These glasses break and crack in similar patterns and are engineered with comparable thermal tension limits.

  • Standard Thickness Options:
    Available in both 1/8-inch and 3/16-inch thicknesses, regardless of brand.

  • Soot Residue:
    Some users believe certain brands accumulate less soot, but that’s a myth. Soot buildup depends on the type of fuel you burn and how you operate your appliance, not the brand of glass.

Our Brand of Choice at Total-Hearth

We proudly use Pyro-Glass, which is distributed by Corning, a trusted U.S.-based manufacturer. This glass is processed domestically to ensure consistent quality and support American manufacturing.

Bottom line:
Whether you choose Robax, Pyroceram, Neoceram, or Pyro-Glass, you’re getting the same high-performance ceramic glass. Your decision may simply come down to availability, sourcing, or preference.

 

Q: Can I order custom-cut glass for my wood stove or fireplace? What should I know?

A: Absolutely! At Total-Hearth, we specialize in custom-cut ceramic glass and custom-cut tempered glass for wood stoves, pellet stoves, and fireplaces. Whether you're replacing a broken panel or upgrading your unit, we ensure a precise fit based on your measurements.

1. How to Measure for Custom Glass

  • Best practice: Measure your existing glass as accurately as possible.

  • No existing glass?
    First, confirm whether your unit requires ceramic glass (for high-heat appliances) or tempered glass (for decorative units). Our other FAQs can help guide you.

  • Pro tip: Measure the tight cavity where the glass sits and deduct 3/8 inch from each dimension.
    Example: If the cavity is 12", order your glass at 11 5/8".

2. Production & Lead Times

  • Custom-cut ceramic glass: Typically ships same day or next business day, depending on when the order is placed.

  • Custom-cut tempered glass: Requires 7–10 business days to manufacture due to the specialized tempering process, which involves heating and rapid cooling to strengthen the glass.

3. Refund Policy

Please note: All custom glass orders are final sale and non-refundable.
Once cut, tempered glass cannot be resized or altered—attempting to do so will cause it to shatter. Ensure your measurements are accurate before placing your order.

Recap: If you're in need of custom-sized fireplace or stove glass, we’ve got you covered. Just measure carefully, choose the right type (ceramic or tempered), and let us handle the precision cutting.

Q: When should I replace the rope gasket on my wood stove door, and how do I know it’s worn out?

A: You should replace your wood stove door gasket when the seal becomes loose or ineffective. Signs your gasket may need replacing include:

  • Smoke leaking from around the door

  • Difficulty controlling the fire, often caused by excess air entering the stove

Over time, the gasket naturally wears down from repeated use, which compromises the air-tight seal that’s crucial for efficient and safe stove performance.

Easy Test: The Paper Trick

You can perform a simple paper test to check the condition of your gasket:

  1. Insert a piece of paper between the stove door and the stove frame.

  2. Close the door.

  3. Try pulling the paper out.

  • If the paper slides out easily, the gasket is too loose and should be replaced.

  • If the paper is resistant all the way around, your seal is still in good shape.

Why Replacing Your Gasket Matters

A properly sealed stove door:

  • Maintains optimal burn efficiency

  • Gives you better control of airflow and heat output

  • Prevents smoke leaks and potential safety hazards

Replacing a door rope gasket is a simple, DIY-friendly task, and we offer easy-to-follow installation videos right on our website to help you through the process.

 

 

Q: What types of gaskets are used in wood stoves and fireplaces, and how do I know which one to choose?

A: Wood stoves and fireplaces use three primary types of gaskets—rope, tape, and tadpole—each designed for specific sealing functions and areas of application. Choosing the right gasket depends on your stove or fireplace model and where the gasket is being installed.

1. Tape Gasket

  • Best for: Sealing around the edges of stove or fireplace glass

  • Design: Flat strip shaped like a “U” or “C” channel with an adhesive backing

  • Installation: The sticky side wraps around the edge of the glass, sealing it in place while protecting the glass edges from damage

  • Function: Provides a tight seal between the glass and the door frame to prevent air leaks

2. Rope Gasket

  • Best for: Sealing wood stove and fireplace doors

  • Design: Round, rope-like gasket available in sizes from ¼ inch to 1¼ inches in diameter

  • Material options:

    • White fiberglass – standard option

    • Graphite-impregnated fiberglass – dark gray, offers enhanced durability, burns less easily, and adheres better for longer-lasting performance

  • Function: Maintains an airtight seal, ensuring proper combustion and efficient heat output

3. Tadpole Gasket

  • Best for: Gas fireplaces or fireplaces with a glass door cover

  • Design: Unique shape with a round "bulb" and flat "tail" (resembling a tadpole), designed to compress and seal as the door cover closes

  • Function: Cushions and seals the door cover while providing a secure fit around the glass or frame

How to Choose the Right Gasket

Always refer to your owner’s manual to confirm the correct gasket type, size, and material. Using the wrong type can compromise your unit’s seal, reduce efficiency, and pose safety risks.

Bottom line: Matching your gasket to the specific needs of your stove or fireplace ensures safe operation, better heat control, and improved appliance longevity.

Q: What is the safest and most effective way to clean wood stove or fireplace glass?

A: The best way to clean your fireplace or stove glass is by using an ammonia-free foaming cleaner—like our Total Hearth Stove Glass Cleaner, specifically designed for high-temp ceramic or tempered glass. It’s safe, highly effective, and leaves behind a streak-free finish while doubling as a polish.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Fireplace Glass

  1. Spray the inside of the glass with the cleaner while the glass is cool to the touch.

  2. Spray more cleaner on a piece of crumpled newspaper or paper towel.

  3. Dip the newspaper into a bit of cool ash from your stove.

  4. Gently scrub the glass with the ash-covered newspaper—this creates a mild abrasive paste that breaks down built-up soot and creosote.

  5. Wipe the glass clean using a fresh paper towel.

  6. Spray one final coat of glass cleaner and wipe again for a crystal-clear, streak-free finish.

Why This Method Works

  • Ash + cleaner forms a non-scratching paste that’s tough on soot but gentle on the glass.

  • Foaming formula clings to the surface and lifts grime effectively.

  • No ammonia means it’s safe for both ceramic glass (up to 1400°F) and tempered glass (up to 400°F).

  • Regular use leaves a protective polish that makes future cleanings easier.

Pro Tip:

Clean your glass regularly to prevent buildup. The more frequently you clean it, the easier each session will be—and your fire will always look its best.

Q: How do I maintain the glass and gasket on my wood stove or fireplace for long-term performance?

A: Consistent maintenance is key to keeping your wood stove or fireplace performing efficiently while maintaining a clear view of the fire. Regular cleaning and gasket inspections can help prevent issues like soot buildup, air leaks, and heat loss.

Glass Maintenance Tips:
Clean the glass regularly using an ammonia-free foaming stove glass cleaner, such as Total Hearth Stove Glass Cleaner. Avoid harsh cleaners like oven sprays, which can damage the surface of the glass. Burning hotter fires when appropriate can also reduce soot buildup. Hot fires promote cleaner combustion and help prevent smoky residues from sticking to the glass, while smoldering, low-temperature fires tend to create lingering flue gases that cause buildup.

Gasket Maintenance Tips:
Inspect the door gasket before each heating season and periodically during regular use. If the gasket appears loose, worn, or compressed, it should be replaced. A tight gasket seal ensures efficient burning, prevents air leaks, and helps maintain consistent stove performance. Common signs of a failing gasket include trouble regulating the fire or smoke escaping from around the door.

Summary:
Maintaining clean glass and a functional gasket improves the safety, efficiency, and appearance of your stove. Regular care helps prevent costly issues and ensures your wood stove or fireplace runs as intended.

Q: What products and parts does Total-Hearth offer besides replacement glass?

A: While Total-Hearth is known for manufacturing high-quality glass for wood stoves, fireplaces, and pellet stoves, we also offer a full range of replacement parts and maintenance products to keep your heating system running smoothly.

Glass and Gaskets

  • Custom-cut ceramic and tempered glass made to manufacturer specifications

  • Gasket materials for stove doors, ash pans, glass edges, and gas fireplaces

Replacement Stove and Fireplace Parts

  • Blower motors and full blower kits

  • Thermostats and thermal discs

  • Door handles, hardware, baffles, and other essential components

Pellet Stove Parts

  • Auger motors and auger shafts

  • Control circuit boards and electronic components

Maintenance Supplies

  • High-temperature sealants and adhesives

  • Firebrick replacements

  • Stove cement, cleaners, and surface restoration products

Special Order and Discontinued Parts
If you need a part you don’t see listed on our website, just reach out. We’re happy to help locate what you need. We can often source hard-to-find or discontinued parts through special orders.

Summary:
Total Hearth is your one-stop resource for not only replacement stove and fireplace glass but also a wide variety of gaskets, parts, and maintenance products. Whether you're performing routine upkeep or a full restoration, we've got the components and expertise to help.

Q: Do I need to use the same brand or type of glass when replacing the glass in my stove or fireplace?

A: The brand of glass isn’t as important as sticking with the correct type of glass your stove or fireplace was originally designed for. Matching the type ensures proper fit, heat resistance, and safety.

Here's what to know:

  • Ceramic glass types — such as Pyroceram, Neoceram, Robax, and Pyro-Glass — are all suitable replacements for one another. If your appliance originally used one of these, any of the others will work just as well, since they all handle temperatures up to 1400°F.

  • Tempered glass must be replaced with tempered glass. It's only rated to around 400°F and should only be used in decorative, low-heat fireplaces.

  • Ceramic glass must be used in high-heat applications like wood stoves, pellet stoves, and airtight fireplaces. Never substitute with tempered glass—it’s unsafe at high temperatures.

  • Antique stoves often used mica (also known as isinglass). If that’s what your stove originally used, it must be replaced with the same to ensure proper sealing and operation.

Bottom line:

Always replace the glass in your stove or fireplace with the same type of glass it originally used, even if you’re switching brands. This ensures optimal performance, safety, and longevity of your heating appliance.

Q: How long does it take to get custom-cut tempered glass, and can I return it if the size is wrong?

A: Custom-cut tempered glass typically takes 7–10 business days to manufacture, plus shipping time. Depending on your location, your order may take up to two weeks to arrive.

Why does it take this long?

Tempered glass goes through a specialized process:

  • First, it’s cut from standard annealed glass to your exact measurements.

  • The edges are seamed (sanded smooth) for safe handling.

  • The glass is then tempered: rapidly heated to a high temperature and cooled quickly to harden it and “lock” its structure.

  • This process is done twice for strength and durability.

  • Once complete, the glass is cleaned, packaged, and shipped to you.

Can it be refunded?

No—custom tempered glass is non-refundable.

  • Once tempered glass is cut and processed, it cannot be re-cut or resized.

  • Trying to alter tempered glass will cause it to shatter into tiny pieces.

  • Each piece is made to order, based on the exact dimensions you provide.

Bottom line:

Custom-cut tempered glass takes about two weeks to arrive and cannot be returned or modified. Always double-check your measurements before placing an order to ensure a perfect fit.

Q: Does Total-Hearth offer free shipping, and how can I get help with my order?

A: Yes! At Total-Hearth, we offer free standard shipping anywhere in the U.S. on orders over $100.

For orders under $100:

A standard shipping fee will apply. We ship using the most efficient carrier for your location and timeframe, which could be USPS, UPS, or FedEx, depending on the best available rate and delivery speed.

Need it faster?

We also offer expedited shipping options at checkout, including:

  • 3-Day Shipping

  • 2-Day Shipping

  • Next-Day Shipping

Expedited orders are shipped via UPS or FedEx, based on whichever carrier provides faster service to your location.

Need support?

Our team is happy to help with shipping questions, product support, or order updates. You can contact us by:

  • Phone: 217-223-0999

  • Email: Use our contact form or direct email for a quick response: Support@total-hearth.com

 

Need Help? We’re Here for You

At Total-Hearth, we’re more than just a supplier—we’re your partner in keeping your wood stove or fireplace running safely and efficiently. Whether you need help choosing the right type of glass, measuring for a custom order, replacing a gasket, or troubleshooting a part, our team is ready to assist.

We offer:

  • Free U.S. shipping on orders over $100

  • Custom-cut glass to fit your exact specifications

  • Expert support via phone or email

  • Hard-to-find parts through special order assistance

If you didn’t find your answer here, don’t hesitate to contact us. Give us a call at 217-223-0999 or email Support@total-hearth.com—we’re happy to help.

Total-Hearth: Real People. Real Service. Real Solutions for every Hearth and Home. 

 

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