While making that all important decision to put a custom glass enclosure on your fireplace, or just a stock fireplace enclosure there is much to weigh.   Lets take a look at some typical questions one asks themselves during the process.

1. What are the cost differences?    Your quality average stock glass enclosure can typically run you anywhere from $300.00 (usd) on up.    Dependent on size,style,finishes and even where you purchase the enclosure from.    Custom glass enclosures can range from $645.00 (usd) on up, again dependent on size, style, finishes, options, and any extra customization.  Keep in mind the old saying holds true, especially with fireplace enclosures.  You really do get what you pay for!   You will find that in time you will recover the extra cost of choosing a custom enclosure in heat loss, and air conditioning loss savings.  Choosing a custom enclosure will also help to add extra value to your home.  As well as outlasting any stock or pre-manufactured fireplace enclosure.  That for sure is helpful when it comes to the budget long-term!
2. What are the main advantages of the custom enclosure vs. the stock enclosures?    Your custom enclosure is built around your fireplace opening measurements, Usually within an 1/8 to 1/4″.   If you have an arch opening or stone opening a template should be made. (see the information on our website about measuring your fireplace opening.)  Custom enclosures are tighter fitting than stock enclosures in all aspects.   The door panels have less gaping, glass panels are sealed with a soft pliable high temp silicone.   While the typical stock door the glass panels slide into a track with a screw locking systems. (pressure from the screws tightening the brackets is what is holding the glass in place. ) This type of glass panel install can leave the panels loose allowing more unwanted airways into your home from your firebox.  Some will use gasket, either fiberglass or a tempered rubber sponging gasket.   With custom enclosures you typically have a wider variety of finishes, design styles,  fit styles, hardware styles, and choice of spark protection.  Be it curtain/sliding mesh or stationary gate mesh door panels.   Another huge difference is the thickness of the glass itself.   All glass in a fireplace enclosure must be either tempered or ceramic.   Tempered glass is fine for the average to high use fireplace enclosures and it is much more cost-effective than ceramic glass.   Your custom glass enclosures will typically use 1/4″ thick glass, where a lot of stock vendors only use 3/16″ thick.
3. What about the installation process?  With stock doors many times you are left to your own devices when it comes to installation.   Especially if purchasing online or in a department store.   Stock doors will most times come only with what is called a lentil bar attachment kit, or a pressure mount kit and vague instructions.   While this can be done by someone very handy,  you also want to make sure the installation is done properly preventing any safety issues.  when in doubt call a professional chimney sweep, mason or contractor in to do the installation.   With custom enclosures the mounting/installation instructions and kits are more detailed and quality of the hardware should always be suited to the quality and weight of the glass enclosure.  If you are working with a local business who is building your enclosure, they will offer to install the enclosure for an extra fee or include installation in to your original price quote.   One big thing to remember is that your fireplace glass enclosure is only going to perform as good as the installation itself!   When it comes to arch openings, stone fireplaces, or facings,  pre-manufactured fireplaces, aka prefab,  metal fireboxes and Rumford style fireplaces installations can get a bit more involved and extensive.  Again letting a professional install the enclosure is your best bet! 
4. what are the differences in the manufacturing process?  Stock or pre-manufacture glass enclosures are typically cut out and assembled by a machine or in a large manufacturing facility!  Quality custom enclosures are either cut out with a plasma cutter, or hand forged in a facility specifically meant for that purpose! 

The biggest advantage with a quality custom enclosure is, personalized service and working closely with someone experienced who can help guide you through the process at the place of purchase.   While we have covered the most common questions you might ask,  feel free to ask your question here or contact us.

Here at Cape Cod Fireplace our experienced sales staff can work with you individually or closely with you and your contractor.   We can guide you in the full process from proper re-facing to measuring, styles, design, customizing options, installation styles.   Our staff will clearly and honestly, explain proper procedures,  your options and guide you in what options are best for you and your fireplace. All our custom doors are handcrafted, at our own facility by our staff.   We are honored to have our high quality work be a part of your home.   Your home and fireplace are as individual as you are.  That is important to us!