Quick Answer

To install a Custom Fit Auto Close HearthGate, first measure your hearth or grill width, then mount the gate using the included hardware so the door section swings away from the heat source. The auto-close mechanism requires the gate to be level and the hinges properly aligned to work reliably.

What You Need Before Starting

Before you begin, confirm that your hearth or grill opening is within the gate's adjustable width range. The Custom Fit Auto Close HearthGate (G3111) is designed for standard 6-foot hearths and most BBQ grills, but measuring first prevents frustration. You will need a drill, a level, a pencil, and the mounting hardware included in the box. If you are mounting into drywall, brick, or metal studs, consider picking up the K13 Universal Gates Installation Kit to ensure a secure fit without damaging the surface.

Choosing the Mounting Surface

The gate works best when mounted into solid vertical wood surfaces like wooden posts or wall studs. If your fireplace surround is brick, stone, or tile, you will need masonry anchors or the K13 Installation Kit for a stable hold. Avoid mounting directly into drywall without anchors, as the gate's weight and the force from the auto-close mechanism can pull the screws loose over time.

Installation Steps

  1. Step 1: Measure and Mark the Mounting Height: Hold the gate against the hearth opening at the height you want the top rail to be. Use a level to ensure it is straight, then mark the screw hole locations on both sides with a pencil. Common mistake: Mounting the gate too low so a child can climb over, or too high so the bottom gap exceeds 2 inches. The top of the gate should be at least 30 inches from the floor, and the bottom gap should be no more than 2 inches.
  2. Step 2: Pre-Drill Pilot Holes: Using a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws, drill pilot holes at the marked locations. If mounting into brick or stone, use a masonry bit. Common mistake: Skipping pilot holes, which can crack tile or brick and make screws difficult to drive. Pilot holes prevent surface damage and make screw insertion easier and more precise.
  3. Step 3: Attach the Mounting Brackets: Secure the mounting brackets to the wall using the provided screws. For non-wood surfaces, use the K13 Installation Kit anchors. Tighten screws until snug, but do not overtighten. Common mistake: Over-tightening can strip the screw head or damage the bracket. Hand-tighten with a screwdriver for better control than a power drill.
  4. Step 4: Install the Gate Panels: Slide the gate panels into the mounted brackets. Ensure the door section is positioned on the side where you want access. The auto-close hinges must be on the same side as the door swing. Common mistake: Placing the door so it swings toward the heat source, which can damage the gate or create a tripping hazard. The door should swing away from the fireplace or grill for safety and easier access.
  5. Step 5: Adjust the Auto-Close Tension: Test the door by opening it to 90 degrees and releasing. It should close gently on its own. If it slams shut or does not close fully, adjust the tension screw on the hinge. Common mistake: Forgetting to adjust the tension, which leads to the gate not latching or closing too hard. A properly adjusted auto-close mechanism latches every time without slamming.
  6. Step 6: Verify the Magnet Lock Alignment: Check that the magnet lock on the door aligns with the strike plate on the opposite panel. If the gate is not level, the magnet may not engage. Common mistake: Assuming the lock is broken when it is simply misaligned due to an uneven installation. Use a level during Step 1 to avoid alignment issues later.

Product Features That Matter for Installation

  • Custom Fit Auto Close HearthGate (G3111): Designed to enhance safety around fireplaces and BBQ grills, this innovative gate system fits standard 6-foot hearths and most grills, providing essential protection from hot surfaces, flames, gas starter keys, sharp edges, hard corners, and dirty logs. The versatile design allows the door section to be placed anywhere in the layout, ensuring convenient access where you need it most. Equipped with Magnet Lock… The adjustable door placement means you can position the opening away from the hottest part of the fireplace or grill, and the Magnet Lock keeps the gate securely closed even after repeated use.
  • K13 Universal Gates Installation Kit: The KidCo Universal Gate Installation Kit will work with any manufactures gates. One kit is required for each side of the gate that is not being mounted into a solid vertical wood surface and only the most basic tools are needed to assemble any good child safety gate. If your hearth is brick or stone, this kit provides the hardware needed to mount the gate securely without damaging the surface, making installation possible where standard screws would fail.