Can I install the glass myself? Yes. You can install any component of the system by yourself.
What fill level or thickness do you recommend for the glass? We find that the best fire and flame results are from a fill thickness between 3 inches and 4 inches. Fireplaces that are flush with the floor or hearth usually have a wedge shaped fill level starting at ½ inch up front to about 3 to 4 inches at the back wall.
Can I cover my gas inlet with the AMERICAN FIREGLASS tempered glass? Yes. Most all of our fireplace owners who install AMERICAN FIREGLASS make every attempt to cover the gas inlet. This is optional as it does increase the cost of your system by increasing the amount of glass purchased but is truly worth the end result.
Is a burner pipe needed? Yes. The burner pipe is used for the gas and is placed directly under the AMERICAN FIREGLASS tempered glass pieces.
Will the burner pipe be visible or do I completely cover it? We cover the entire burner pipe. The glass itself will act as a natural diffuser and scatter the gas safely within your fireplace creating a unique and beautiful flame.
Where shall I set my burner in the fireplace? That depends entirely on what type of flame you desire, the number and type of burner pipe(s) and the size of your fireplace. We like to place the burner pipes to the center and slightly towards the front. We turn the pipes so that the holes are facing down and also slightly towards the front. We do this because the flame has a tendency to be drawn up and moves towards the rear wall.
Can you add more than one burner pipe? Yes. Most of our fireplace owners who have large fireplaces install multiple burner pipes to create custom flames.
What about my existing dirty fireplace walls? Your choice is simple. Either hire someone to sweep, clean, and paint your fireplace or do it yourself. To put a clean burning product in a filthy fireplace is completely counter productive and has an ill effect on the end product and goals.
What type of paint should I use? A flame and heat resistant fireplace or barbecue paint. Consider a paint that will resist heat beyond 1200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Are screens or glass doors needed? No. Other than for child’s safety and curiosity there is no obvious reason to keep any screens on the fireplace unless your décor presents a need. There is no popping or risk of burning ash from the product as a risk to your home.
What holds the glass in place? Nothing. The sides and back of your fireplace act as walls for the glass. If there is a front lip or if the fireplace is sunken down there is a natural front wall. However, if the fireplace is flush with the floor or hearth, you should consider a wedge shaped design that slopes from low in front to higher in back. Typically there is of ½ inch glass in front that slopes up to 3 to 4 inches in back.
Will the glass fall out if my fireplace if it has no front ‘lip’ or ‘edge’? Answer No. What we have done with several installations is to form the glass bedding in a wedge shape. Typically this is ½ inch glass in front that slopes up to 3 to 4 inches in back. This eliminates concern for falling glass.
Can I use a filler under the Fireglass in a fire pit? Yes, we recommend lava rock. You would do this to cut down on the amount of Fireglass needed.
How should I put the burner in my fire pit? When installing the burner you should put the holes down. This is to keep water out of the gas line.
Should I ever clean the Fireglass? Yes, if you see debris on the glass you should clean it because this will burn and stain the Fireglass.
Can I cook in the fire pit after installing the Fireglass? No, you should never use the fire pit for cooking. If you see debris on the glass you should clean it because this will burn and stain the glass.
