When (and How) to Replace Your Wood Stove Glass Gasket

Does your wood stove gasket need replacing? If your door isn't sealing properly or you're seeing smoke leaks, it's probably time. Here’s a simple guide to help you check and replace it.

Step 1: Remove the Door

Carefully take off the stove door and lay it flat. If the handle gets in the way, you can let it hang off the edge of the table- no need to remove it.

Step 2: Check the Gasket Type

Once the glass is exposed, look for the gasket. Here are the most common types:

• Rope Gasket (3/16”, ¼”, or 5/16”): Sits under the glass inside a channel.
  👉 View rope gaskets

• Flat Tape Gasket (¾”): Wraps around the glass edges. We recommend the sticky-backed kind—it’s cleaner and easier to install.
  👉 View tape gaskets

• Tadpole Gasket (½” or 5/8”): Has a round “bulb” shape for a tight seal. Available in foil-wrapped (semi-rigid) or soft core styles.
  
  If your stove didn’t originally have a gasket, we still suggest adding one. Gaskets help prevent breakage and improve efficiency.

 Step 3: Clean It Up

Once the glass is out, use a flat screwdriver and wire brush to clean the glass “pocket.” No leftover ash, creosote, or debris.

Step 4: Install the New Gasket & Glass

• For rope gaskets: Lay it into the channel, then place the glass on top. Don’t overtighten the screws—just a little more than finger-tight is plenty.

• For tape gaskets: Peel off a few inches of backing and press the sticky side to the edge of the glass like a U-channel. Go all the way around, trim the excess, and reinstall.

🧠 Pro tip: Back each screw off about a ¼ turn after tightening. It prevents too much pressure on the glass.

🔎 Bonus Tips

• Some stoves have a missing gasket section—that’s intentional! It’s for air-wash systems to keep the glass clean.

• If your stove clips touch the glass, slide a small piece of gasket under each one to cushion it.

📺 Want to see it in action?
👉 Watch our install video

Need help figuring out what gasket your stove uses? Message us or check out the full line at Total-Hearth.com. We're happy to help!