Ceramic vs Tempered Glass for the Fireplace [Which One do You Need?]

Glass fireplace doors are stylish, energy-efficient, and they’ll help keep the embers and smoke at bay. The best part is that you can choose between ceramic and tempered glass when creating your masterpiece. 

And in the battle between the ceramic vs tempered glass fireplace, only one can emerge supreme. 

When you hear the word ceramic, your mind immediately goes to the kitchen. You think of plates, mugs, and bowls, so when the words glass and ceramic are combined, it could get a little confusing.  

Ceramic glass is produced from heating, cooling, and reheating glass. This results in a strong and orderly structure. With the basic component being clay, you get the advantage of glass as well as ceramics; all in one.

Tempered glass, on the other hand, is typically referred to as safety glass, and it’s made from normal glass that’s made tougher by either heating it up or by adding chemicals to it. The goal is to apply high amounts of stress in the glass in order to compress the outer surface while tensing the inside. 

You’re talking about something that’s four times stronger than the glass we’re all used to. That’s why it’s so suitable for fireplace doors.

The answer isn’t as easy as you think. You need to figure out your priorities before making a decision because each glass is suitable for different purposes. 

If you’re looking for something that can withstand higher heat levels, then ceramic glass is what you need. If you‘re hoping for something more affordable, something that will last long; then tempered glass is the way to go. This also depends on what your fireplace initially came with. You do not want to install tempered glass in an assembly that originally had ceramic glass as it will most likely break due to the excessive heat.

Tempered glass has a tendency to block heat, meaning most of it ends up going up the chimney instead of spreading through the room. Ceramic glass will actually transfer most of the heat into the room, which means you get the most out of the energy being produced. 

At the end of the day, your fireplace door isn’t supposed to stop the fireplace from doing its job. Think carefully about what your reason is for getting the door before deciding on the kind of glass you want.  

How hot does your fireplace get when you’ve got a fire running? How often do you plan on using the fireplace and how will you actually make use of it? These are questions that should come to mind when shopping for a glass fireplace door. 

Different types of glass are designed for different purposes, so you need to be clear on what will follow once you’ve chosen which glass is ideal for your home.

For tempered glass; don’t ever keep a fire going with the door closed. The build-up of heat could shatter the glass. When it comes to ceramic, you may close the door because the heat will still pass through and no shattering will take place. 

However, because ceramic glass doesn’t go through the whole process of heating and cooling, it just won’t be as durable as tempered glass. That’s why if you choose ceramic glass, you have to mount it in a steel door frame.

• The design of your door should accommodate some air, so make sure there are some spaces to let it through.

• You have to get your measurements right and make sure you get the right dimensions.
• When cleaning the fireplace door, use a solution of water, white vinegar, and some ash to give it a thick consistency.
• Use a microfiber towel to get them clean, and just like when brushing your teeth; scrub in circles.

Now that you know the benefits and disadvantages of both tempered glass and ceramic glass, it should be clear which option is best for you. You’ll have to weigh the pros and cons, consider your unique situation, and make an informed decision. If you’re still in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask an expert what they think is the right option.

The great thing about a glass fireplace door is that it can elevate your old-fashioned fireplace to a state of elegance. 

It’s the main attraction in many homes, especially if it’s installed properly. While it’s great that your fireplace will look good, keeping functionality in mind is absolutely necessary. So, it’s a good thing that you’re equipped with enough knowledge to choose between ceramic glass doors or tempered glass ones for your fireplace.