A fireplace, whether wood-burning or gas, is a beautiful and elegant part of your home. Although not many homeowners can afford a fireplace, it is exceptionally beneficial during the cold months in winter. It also adds value to a house, which is useful if you are looking to purchase or sell your property.

In modern times, glass-enclosed fireplaces have replaced outdated ones, those built with bricks and logs. A glass-encased fireplace has, over time, become a symbol of high-class status. However, it is not easy to maintain this luxury. Cleaning and maintaining the glass doors is a significant responsibility and requires planning.

To keep your fireplace looking shiny and good as new, adequate and routine cleaning must be done.

The following simple steps will help you keep your fireplace sparkling clean.

1. Turn off the fireplace

Turning off the fireplace might look like an obvious step. It is essential to switch off the fireplace and make sure that the fireplace has cooled before you can start cleaning. Cleaning the fireplace directly after using it is dangerous because the glass is still hot. Make sure that the ash and coal remnants have also cooled off to avoid injury. Remnant coal and ash in the fireplace can remain hot for up to 48 hours so that you could wait for at least two days. For extra protection when cleaning, wear safety gloves.

2. Take out the fireplace glass

You should make sure that the fireplace has cooled before you can remove the glass. Keep in mind that glass is delicate, so you should be very careful. Gas fireplaces do not need wood and have doors that do not open easily. They are secured in place but are removable. The fireplace manual or online guide will provide information on how to open the doors. The guide will help you remove the doors safely without damaging the glass and how to put them back as well.

In other instances, there is glass or a simple surround that is simply for decorative purposes. These come off easier and give you access to the fireplace doors. When you remove the glass, you are ready to start cleaning.

3. Spread glass cleaning solution on the glass

We advise that you use a glass cleaner to wash fireplace glass. Ensure that the window cleaner used is not ammonia-based since it cannot clean carbon residues and gives you bad results. The white accumulation found on the fireplace glass’s inner part is due to burning gas particles and carbon residue.

Lay down the glass and apply enough glass cleaner on the surface. Gently but thoroughly rub in the cleanser to dislodge the dirt. Use a clean cloth or towel to wipe the cleaner off as soon as the debris has come off. Please do not leave the glass cleaner on the glass for a long time because it will dry and stain it. Wipe the cleaning solution off to leave your fireplace glass sparkling.

4. Wash both sides of the fireplace glass

After cleaning the inner side of the fireplace glass, you should clean the outer part as well. The outer part might seem clean but might be smudged with fingerprints or small dust particles.

Apply the window cleaner directly on the glass. Immediately wipe the glass with a soft dry cloth like you do o windows and glass tabletops. Use the amount of cleaner that is enough for the area of the fireplace glass surface. Window cleaners usually have instructions on the exact amount you need to use.

Start cleaning from one corner and rub in the cleanser in small circular motions. A balanced application of the cleaner on the fireplace glass is essential to ensure all the glass is clean. Rub the cleaning solution until the cloth moves effortlessly on the glass.

5. Let the fireplace glass dry

Follow the instructions on the cleaner that state how long it takes for it to dry. Leave the fireplace glass to dry, allowing the solution to continue removing the remaining residue. Use a fresh soft dry cloth to polish the last of the cleaner from the glass, leaving the glass streak-free and shiny.

6. Put the fireplace glass back onto the fireplace

When you are satisfied with the result, you should return the fireplace glass to its place. Be sure to secure the glass well and tighten the clips at the glass’s top and bottom. Your fireplace glass is now clean and looking as good as new.

You should clean your fireplace glass at least once a year, twice a year, if you live in colder climates. Dirt and residue can cause damage to the fireplace glass if not cleaned regularly.

Tips to Keep Your Fireplace Functioning Well

Maintenance of the fireplace involves its cleaning. However, you should pay close attention and take note of anything odd.

• If soot piles up on your fireplace glass, it indicates that combustion does not occur in the right way. Soot is a big concern because a fireplace can turn into a fire hazard, and you should call a professional to carry out an inspection. Remove and cut off any source of fuel and contact your local vendor for help.
• If you notice scratches forming on the glass or slowly progressing to cracks, you should call a professional. Cracks show that the glass is weakening due to wear and tear and is a potential fire hazard.

Conclusion

Cleaning fireplace glass is an essential part of maintenance. A clean fireplace also adds to your space’s beauty and elegance and reduces the damage caused by soot and dirt. Cleaning your fireplace glass will save you money because it prolongs the lifespan of the glass.

At Glassuply.com, we supply high-quality tempered glass that is durable and will not break easily. We also install glasses and mirrors and will help you with all your glass maintenance needs.