How to Apply a Rope Gasket to the Door of a Woodstove

Woodstove doors rely on a heat-resistant, braided rope gasket to prevent air leakage between the door and the body of the stove. The rope secures around the inner perimeter of the stove door and is compressed when the door is closed and locked. Through time and use, the rope gasket becomes deformed and loses its sealing capability. Applying a new rope gasket to the woodstove door requires a few tools, materials and basic do-it-yourself ability.

Flat-head screwdriver
Damp cloth
Heat-resistant gasket adhesive
Spray bottle of water
Utility knife

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the woodstove door by moving it back and forth while applying upward pressure. Set the door on a suitable work surface.
- 2
  Pry any section of the rope gasket out from the door channel with a flat-head screwdriver. Pull the entire gasket out from the door by hand.
- 3
  Scrape any residual gasket adhesive from the door channel using the screwdriver.
- 4
  Wipe out the channel with a damp cloth.
- 5
  Apply heat-resistant gasket adhesive within the door channel. Make sure to apply one continuous bead in the channel.
- 6
  Moisten the new rope gasket using a spray bottle filled with water. The rope surface should be slightly dampened only, not soaked.
- 7
  Install the new rope gasket beginning at one of the lower corners of the door channel. Continue around the channel, pressing the rope into the adhesive as you do.
- 8
  Butt the two ends of the rope gasket together. Cut off any excess rope using a utility knife or scissors.
- 9
  Apply adhesive to the cut end of the rope and tuck the two ends together in the door channel.
- 10
  Install the door onto the stove.
- 11
  Close and lock the door. Allow the adhesive to cure for the time designated by the manufacturer, although at least two hours are best.

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