Fireplace Safety Barriers: Mesh Screens vs. Double Glass Technology
When you’re designing a luxury fireplace feature, safety is non-negotiable — especially if you have curious children or pets. But in the world of high-end residential fireplaces, “safe” doesn’t have to mean a bulky, distracting barrier.
Modern gas fireplaces are required by law to have a protective layer to prevent accidental contact with the hot glass. At Ember Fireplaces, we offer two approaches to meet this standard — and the difference between them can transform the entire look of your room.
The Industry Standard: Protective Mesh Screens
The most common safety solution is a fine, lightweight metal screen that sits just an inch or two away from the glass. The screen dissipates heat before it can reach a hand or a paw while still allowing the radiant warmth of the fire to heat your room.
Modern screens are engineered to be as unobtrusive as possible — on many of our premium models, we utilize Micro-Mesh, an even finer weave that virtually disappears when the fire is lit. Mesh screens are typically integrated into a decorative front or faceplate, giving you the opportunity to add an extra design element to your room.
The Luxury Upgrade: Double Glass Safety Technology
For homeowners seeking the absolute peak of clarity and safety, Double Glass is a premium option available on select high-end brands such as Ortal, Flare, and Urbana.
Instead of a mesh screen, these units use two layers of glass with a small air gap between them. A silent, integrated cooling system constantly whisks away heat from the outer pane. Because there is no mesh at all, you get a 100% unobstructed view of the fire — the invisible safety solution.
This technology is the key to the frameless look. Because the outer glass stays cooler, it allows your wall finishes — stone, tile, or plaster — to come right to the edge of the glass, creating the sleek, architectural appearance that defines modern interior design. The outer layer stays significantly cooler to the touch, providing the highest level of protection while allowing you to enjoy the fire comfortably for hours.
Want to see the difference in person? Visit our Edison, NJ showroom to experience both mesh and double-glass systems side by side. Schedule a visit or call (848) 467-4360.