Fireplace sealing ropes – why? how?

The fireplace often performs not only as a beautifying function at home, but also supports central heating systems. In many cases it can be a relatively cheap alternative to gas furnaces. So if you’re thinking about supplying heat to the house by burning wood in the fireplace, you should also think about ensuring full functionality of the fireplace making sure that it stays sealed with the help of sealing ropes.

Why is securing the fireplace with sealing ropes so important?

In a well-sealed fireplace wood or briquette burns longer, therefore heat is also released longer. The average efficiency of heating from one piece of wood is higher. In a properly sealed fireplace, the oxygen used in the combustion process is sucked in from the chimney, where smoke also rises. If leaks occur around the door, then the air can also be taken in from the heated rooms. Also the smell of smoke can spread around the house, which is very undesirable.

What to seal the fireplace with – tapes and ropes

When sealing fireplaces, grills and low-temperature ovens, two products are the top choice on the market: fibreglass and aluminosilicate. Let us examine their basic distinguishing features.

Steigner offers fibreglass ropes and tapes. This material can withstand constant temperatures up to approx. 550°C (1022°F), and starts to soften at approx. 840°C (1544°F). The tape is easy to assemble because it is flat and self-adhesive. The rope, in turn, has a round cross-section and is woven which means that its installation requires more precision. Please be advised that fibreglass irritates skin, eyes and respiratory tract. It is therefore necessary to wear protective gear when handling this product.

Ceramic ropes, products made of aluminosilicate, are characterised by higher temperature resistance – they can withstand heat gusts of up to 1800°C (3272°F) and a constant temperature of 1260°C (2300°F). In addition, installation of this seal is simpler because it has a square cross-section. Not a circular (like a fibreglass rope) one. Aluminosilicate may also be harmful, so caution is advised when handling, like in the case of fibreglass.

Full functionality of a fireplace achieved with Steigner products!

Steigner sealing ropes and tapes for fireplaces, grills or low temperature ovens (sold on Amazon) are available in various sizes. The round fibreglass ropes have diameters ranging from 6 to 14 mm. They are available in white and grey colours. Ceramic sealing ropes have a square cross-section and their dimensions range from 6×6 mm to even 40×40 mm. Tapes also come in three different sizes. You can also adjust the length of each product by cutting it.

Over the years, materials wear out, especially under the influence of heat, that’s why leaks in fireplaces occur – small cracks, crevices, etc. They reduce the efficiency of your home furnace. Adequate sealing is therefore an investment that will pay off in the long run.