Frequently Asked Questions

Measurement of Lintel to Floor

• What is a lintel?
  The lintel is a piece of steel that holds up the top row of bricks in the fireplace opening. It is used by the mason during installation of the fireplace to hold the bricks firmly in place until the mortar dries. Once the fireplace construction is completed, the lintel often remains in place to give support to the top row of bricks.
  
  
• When I measure from the lintel to the floor, do I measure to the floor of the firebox or to the hearth?
  It is possible that the floor of your firebox and your hearth are not at the same level so you will want to measure from the lintel to wherever the fireplace door will be installed. If the fireplace door is going to be installed as an inside fit, measure to the floor of the firebox - that is where the fireplace door will rest. If the door is going to be installed as an overlap fit, measure to the hearth.
  
  
• Why do you need to know the location of my lintel?
  Our steel fireplace doors have a back frame that extends into the opening, even if the door is an overlap fit. We ask for this measurement so we can ensure that the installation of the door won't be hindered by the location of the lintel.
  
  
• My fireplace doesn't have a lintel. Is this a problem?
  Not at all. Not all fireplaces have lintels. Simply put "N/A" in the measurement field.

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