If you have a fireplace insert, or are looking to install one to improve the efficiency of your home heating, the manufacturer clearly dictates mantel clearances in their installation instructions. Seattle Building Code Regulations for Fireplace Hearths. A non-combustible material such as marble, stone, or tile is also required to be installed between the fireplace opening and your mantel. 2) Within 6 feet of the appliance. There are National Fire Codes that require all flammable materials to be at least 6" from the fireplace opening, and depending on the overhang and material of the mantel, that distance could be more. B-vented gas fireplaces usually have mantel requirements that will exceed this clearance. Most fireplaces will fall under the category of masonry fireplaces as outlined in code 2111.1, which defines masonry fireplaces as any fireplace that is constructed of masonry or concrete. The condo fireplace has a minimal flame and a small chimney flue opening. She keeps reminding herself that gardening is a process, not an outcome. However if you have a gas fireplace which does not burn solid fuel like woods, then you do not need to satisfy the hearth extension requirement. Your fireplace hearth must extend at least 16 inches beyond the fireplace opening and at least 8 inches on either side of the firebox, according to the International Code Council. for each 1-in. A mantel heat shield will prevent your mantel from becoming too warm. Adjusting this manually, usually with a latch or handle, allows the smoke to escape or air to enter. Most codes specify mantel distance from the firebox itself. The code references are strictly for masonry fireplaces constructed to that code and do not apply to freestyle creations of architects and adventurous pyromaniacs. Fire safety is incredibly important, and even more so when the fire sits in your own backyard. So if you are looking for UL listed chimney liner sold directly to homeowners, then look no further than Rockford Chimney. © 2018 Rockford Chimney Supply. The minimum thickness of hearth extensions shall be 2 inches (51 mm). Combustible materials within 12 in. Also, vent free gas fireplaces will have a much greater clearance. Visibility: 47% of survivors caught in a fire could not see more than 12 feet 3/4 of all fire deaths are caused by smoke inhalation. Building codes vary across the country regarding the amounts of space between the wood-burning firebox opening and the nearest combustible material such as a wood fireplace mantel. While we may have grown up listening to this Christmas song, the idea of hanging combustible stockings above the fireplace may not have been the greatest suggestion. have a non-combustible hearth extending not less than. Fireplace Inserts & Hearth Mounted Stoves Some ventilation requirements are in effect. If you live in an earthquake-prone area, you'll need seismic reinforcing, usually with four vertical bars anchored to the foundation. past the front edge of the fireplace and at least 8" beyond each side of the fireplace opening. Where the fireplace opening is 6 sq. You'll want to familiarize yourself with your local building code for fireplaces. As a general rule, a mantel is placed about 12 inches above the fireplace opening. a. Masonry over a fireplace opening shall be supported by a lintel of noncombustible material. If it’s a factory-made fireplace your project calls for, whether wood or gas, the manufacturer’s specifications largely determine where and how they can be installed. Once your fireplace installed, you can enjoy it – but don't forget to get it inspected regularly. Local building codes take precedence over national and international codes, but it's best if your fireplace meets or exceeds these … Section R1001.9.2 of the 2015 Minnesota Residential Code says the following: R1001.9.2 Hearth extension thickness. Part 3: Why is My Chimney Chase Cover Leaking? of a fireplace opening shall not project more than 1/8 in. Most fireplaces radiate heat out of the front of the firebox, because of this, your mantel needs to be placed a safe distance away from the firebox. We are here to answer all of your questions. Note: This table provides a summary of major requirements for the construction of masonry chimneys and fireplaces. The throat shall not be less than 8 inches (203 mm) above the fireplace opening. Not required in Seismic Design Category A, B or C. ITEM LETTERa REQUIREMENTS Hearth slab thickness A 4 Hearth extension (each side of opening) B 8 fireplace opening < 6 square foot. Use a mantel heat shield when you have small clearances between the top of your fireplace and the bottom of your mantel. Installing a fireplace mantle without adequate clearance from the fireplace opening could be a serious fire hazard and it may lead to damage and injury. These are usually based on the International Building Code standards, along with standards set by the National Fire Code. Prefabricated fireboxes are also available, and are usually made of prefab panels and metal. Gas fireplaces have increased in popularity over the past few years. All wood beams, joists, studs and other combustible material shall have a clearance of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) from the front faces and sides of masonry fireplaces and not less than 4 inches (102 mm) from the back faces of masonry fireplaces. ICC Digital Codes is the largest provider of model codes, custom codes and standards used worldwide to construct safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. Installation of steel fireplace units with solid masonry to form a masonry fireplace is permitted when installed either in accordance with the requirements of their listing or the requirements of this section. A cleanout opening should be provided within 6 inches of the base of each flue for a masonry chimney. The flue – or the airway through which the smoke rises from the fireplace – should be installed according to the manufacturer's directions. If the fireplace opening is less than six square feet, the extension of the hearth must be eight inches to the side and 16 inches to the front. Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances. They must meet height requirements in relation to the roof peak. These fireplaces will typically have a sealed pane of glass on the front of the fireplace. Fireplace Liners 9.22.3. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Fireplace Walls 9.22.4. All codes & standards. Code: R1003. An additional inch of clearance is needed for every 1/8 inch the combustible material or trim protrudes. Posted in The Chimney Sweep Blog and Fireplaces, Wood Stoves, and Inserts, Thank You to all of the Veterans! Footings for masonry chimneys need to be at least 12 inches thick and should extend at least 6 inches beyond the face of the foundation. Click Here for Restrictions . less than 200 mm beyond each side of the fireplace. This … Photo examples of cracks in on and around masonry fireplaces and a guide to their cause and remedy. 1) Except as required in Sentence (2), fireplaces shall. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker. R1001.15 Chimney clearances. Fireplaces appeal to a sense of nostalgia. 2006 NORTH CAROLINA RESIDENTIAL CODE 253 CHIMNEYS AND FIREPLACES For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square inch = 645.16 mm2. Hearth 9.22.6. An electric fireplace should not be plugged into any type of extension cord. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser. Fire pit - All fire pits shall be constructed in a manner consistent with good engineering and construction practices. You will likely need a screen on your chimney cap to prevent sparks from escaping. Home / Info / All Posts / Gas Fireplace Insert Electrical Requirements × Gas Fireplace Insert Electrical Requirements. Inlets to masonry chimneys should enter from the side. She also enjoys spending time in her garden, each year resolving not to let the weeds overtake them. Importance of permits. For direct vent sealed units, these clearances are based on the manufacturers installation recommendations and should be followed exactly to prevent fire hazard and/or injury. fireplace or as a conversion of an existing wood fireplace. Round flues need a minimum cross-sectional area of 1/12 the fireplace opening, while square flues need a cross-sectional area of 1/10 the fireplace opening. 3/4/17. Our page top photo shows a lovely fireplace in a Church Hill restaurant on Stewart Island, New Zealand. The height of the opening should be no less than 6 inches, too. Fireplace damper inspection, diagnosis, repair or replacement. This concrete or masonry must be at least 12 inches thick and extend at least 6 inches past the face of the fireplace or fireplace foundation wall. Most local building codes and the ICC want 2 inches of clearance between a wood frame exterior or interior wall and masonry. For a fireplace with a larger opening of more than 6 square feet, the ICC requires a hearth that extends 20 inches or more in front and 12 inches or more along the sides. A cozy fire burning in the fireplace can make cold, dark winter nights much more comfortable – and even downright pleasant. Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Our codes and standards, all available for free online access, reflect changing industry needs and evolving technologies, supported by research and development, and practical experience. With Factory-Made Fireplaces the Onus to Build to Code is on the Manufacturer . I am about to tell a client that a non combustible material hearth is required 16" out from the front and 8" out to either side of the opening. As a general rule, the mantel is placed about 12 inches above the fireplace opening. The firebox of a concrete or masonry fireplace shall have a minimum depth of 20 inches (508 mm). Fire Chamber 9.22.5. Fireplace Installation. Damper 9.22.7. Karen Gardner spent many years as a home and garden writer and editor who is now a freelance writer. The building codes will typically determine the height to place the mantel from the hearth, and the distance from the firebox. The National Fire Code dictates that any combustible material (e.g., wood mantel or similar trim) must be at least six inches from the firebox opening. All operational fireplaces are to be constructed in accordance with safety regulations that position flammable material, such as a wood mantel, far enough away from the flames and heat so that it does not ignite. The minimum required bearing length on each end of the fireplace opening shall be 4 inches (102 mm). Are the requirements for a gas only prefab fireplace hearth different from a masonry or prefab dual purpose fireplace? Your firebox wall needs to be 8 inches thick when lined with fire bricks or 10 inches thick without fire bricks. Many codes also do require fire bricks. Electric fireplaces that come with a power cord should be plugged straight into a standard electrical outlet. FIGURE R1001.12.2 FLUE SIZES FOR MASONRY CHIMNEYS. Seattle regulations also mandate exact measurements for the construction of hearths. Note some fireplaces, esp. But if you decide to install a fireplace, you want to make sure your unit meets local building codes. You may not be required to line your firebox with fire bricks, but they are recommended by fire experts. A. Fireplace – Fireplace footings, hearth dimensions/extensions, and height must meet the requirements in Chapter 10 of the currently adoptedInternational Residential Code (IRC). 4) Or, located at a gas manifold within 50 feet and clearly marked. You may want your firebox to be made of masonry, which could be brick, stone or concrete block. summary of requirements for masonry fireplaces and chimneys For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m 2 . If your mantel extends more than an inch and a half out from the fireplace opening, you should have more than a 6-inch clearance. The ICC, though, suggests at least 12 inches. Seattle Building Code Regulations for Fireplace Hearths At least 16 inches in front of a normal fireplace opening At least 8 inches to each side of a normal fireplace opening At least 20 … Smoke Chamber 9.22.8. The requirements for a gas fireplace shutoff valve are at 409.5 in the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC). Zero-Clearance Manufactured Fireplace Information: The codes require the utmost in safety considerations because even when a fireplace is built exactly to code, it represents one of the biggest dangers inside a … Hearth extensions will need to be at least 2 inches thick. the actual mandatory requirements of the code, see the indicated section of text. opening. Fireplace hearths create a clearance zone that protects the floor from flames and sparks. Masonry chimney walls should be at least 4 inches thick. Our 316Ti flexible chimney liner and chimney liner components have passed the rigorous testing at the Underwriters Laboratories with best in class status and are UL Listed. You'll want to familiarize yourself with your local building code for fireplaces. Footings need to be below the frost line or at least 12 inches deep. Municipal building codes are more strictly enforced as they relate to fireplaces than they are for many other decorative additions in a house. https://t.co/2UCWpik4h1. Check your local codes if you're not sure if this applies to you. DIY Videos Chimney Liners, Caps, Dampers, Stove Pipe Install Videos, Articles & Info: Do It Yourself & Contractor Chimney Info, The Correct Direction to Install Wood Stove Pipe. Indiana Fire Code, 2008 Edition (IFC 2006 Edition, 1st printing) Effective 6/16/08. As a property owner, you'll need a permit from your local government before installing a fireplace. Use Coupon Code presidents and Save Big! The letters refer to Figure R1001.1. Approximately 57% of people killed in fires are not in the room of the fire’s origin Source: Hall, Jr. John R. NFPA Fire Analysis & Research, Quincy, MA.“Burns, Toxic Gases, and other Hazards”. Automated Energy Code Compliance System: Georgia: 2006 IMC statewide: V-F appliances allowed throughout the state. However, if the mantel projects more than 1 1/2 inches from the face of the fireplace, the top noncombustible clearance must be at least 12 inches. All wood framing members shall be kept at least 1 inch (25 mm) from chimney masonry and 2 inches (51 mm) from fireplace masonry, excluding the fireplace facing material. These are usually based on the International Building Code standards, along with standards set by the National Fire Code. The hearth material must be requirements for materials, size and location. There are National Fire Codes that require all flammable materials to be at least 6" from the fireplace opening, and depending on the overhang and material of the mantel, that distance could be more. Building codes require a hearth pad to protect the hearth--the floor or raised area in front of a fireplace--from any sparks or embers that may escape from the fireplace box while a fire is burning. Installing a Fireplace . distance from such opening.” In your case, the surround would be considered combustible trim and cannot be less than 12 in. ENDS. Exception: Rumford fireplaces shall be permitted provided that the depth of the fireplace is not less than 12 inches (305 mm) and not less than one-third of the width of the fireplace opening, that the throat is not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the lintel and is not less than 1 / 20 the cross-sectional area of the fireplace opening. Clearance of Combustible Materials 9.22.10. The damper is located inside the flue. This small flap should be made of metal or ceramic. Before you light your new fire feature, make sure you're abiding by the following safety protocols. When it comes to outdoor fire pits, there are certain fire pit laws and regulations enforced to ensure the safety of your property and your loved ones. Fireplaces don't last forever, and chimneys should be cleaned every year or two. You also want the exterior wall of the chimney to have a minimum airspace of 2 inches beyond the exterior wall. Direct-vent systems transfer the combustion fumes and pollutants outside the home via a chimney or an opening on the exterior of the home. If you have an older gas fireplace insert, it likely does not need electrical hook-up since the pilot light is probably lit and at the ready at all times. A fireplace generates heat. First, when planning to install a fireplace, you must consider the regulations regarding the size of the fireplace as well as where it can be placed within your residence or business establishment. 675 IAC 22-2.5 Indiana Fire Code, 2014 Edition (IFC 2012 Edition, 1st printing) Effective 12/1/14 ADC 23 Recreational Facilities. JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. Masonry fireplace and chimney construction is regulated by the building code. The hearth size is determined by the square footage of the fireplace opening. Alberta’s Safety System Alberta Municipal Affairs works in partnership with the Safety Codes Council, municipalities, corporations, agencies, and other organizations, to deliver effective community-focused public safety programs and services to Albertans. 3) Must be upstream of union, connector, or quick-connect device serving fireplace. These codes state that for every 1/8 inch of protruding combustible material, you … You should check if it complies with Australian Standard AS/NZS 2918:2018. It should be located no less than 6 inches below the lowest chimney inlet opening. Then adding an inch to the distance for every inch that the mantel protrudes. … 11 Fireplace Clearances. It will also prevent any discoloration to your mantel due to heat. Direct-vent hearth products are the safest option for supplemental heating. b. For many homeowners, the attraction of owning a gas fireplace lies in the following: • the convenience of an on/off switch and an ever-present fuel supply • the cleanliness factor (gas fireplaces generate no mess in It's installed inside the chimney, ideally just above the firebox and throat. International Building Code 2111.11. Also, each manufacturer of pre-fabricated metal fireplaces specifies safety clearances required for … The Ontario Building Code | Clearance to the Fireplace Opening 9.22.9.1. As the owner of an updated older home, she jumps at the chance to write about the fun and not-so-fun parts of home repair and home upkeep. Footings and Foundations. These codes state that for every 1/8 inch of protruding combustible material, you must add an additional inch of clearance. B. New chimneys should be lined with clay tile or steel. Part 2: Why is My Chimney Chase Cover Leaking. ft. or bigger the front extension needs to be increased to at least 20" and the side extensions to at least 12" beyond the fireplace front. They need to be lined with clay or approved materials that withstand corrosion and condensation up to 1,800 degrees Fahrenheit. You also want to know your fireplace is safe and whether it's woodburning, gas or electric. Virtually every building, process, service, design, and installation is affected by NFPA’s 275+ codes and standards. DC Green Building Act passed City Council and considering 2006 IECC requirements: Florida: 2003 IMC statewide: V-F appliances allowed in most parts of the state. I turned to the actual Minnesota Building Code requirements for fireplace hearth extensions, and that's where I found my answer. That's great for warmth, but you must make sure the materials surrounding your fireplace are not flammable. Local building codes take precedence over national and international codes, but it's best if your fireplace meets or exceeds these standards. A mantel must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening. Masonry fireplace chimney & flue size requirements & hearth dimension codes. Your prefab or masonry firebox will need to be at least 20 inches deep, but it's better if it's 36 inches deep. I am not sure if that is correct. Repealed 12/1/14. Each fireplace must possess a hearth made out of noncombustible material that is reinforced by at least four inches of concrete. from the fireplace opening if projecting more than 1 … The throat opening shall not be less than 4 inches (102 mm) deep. The only requirement you need to satisfy is the hearth extension. Hearth dimensions: A fireplace hearth should extend at least 16" (M.I.A.) NFPA 211 reduces fire hazards by ensuring the safe removal of flue gases, the proper installation of solid fuel-burning appliances, and the correct construction and installation of chimneys, fireplaces, and venting systems. Exception: Rumford fireplaces shall be permitted provided that the depth of the fireplace is at least 12 inches (305 mm) and at least one-third of the width of the fireplace opening, that the throat is at least 12 inches (305 mm) above the lintel and is at least 1 / 20 the cross-sectional area of the fireplace opening. 400 mm in front of the fireplace opening and not. The hearth and hearth extension should be 36 inches from the back of the firebox if the firebox is less than 6 square feet. Most homeowners who choose direct-vent models enjoy the peace of mind of knowing that all odors and pollutants are being vented outsid… You may be able to install a decorative gas-burning fireplace without a permit, but make sure you know this information before you do the installation. You want the top of the chimney to be at least 2 feet above the roofline. ... to form a masonry fireplace provided they are installed according to either the requirements of their listing or the requirements of this section. So a mantel 6 inches deep, would be attached 18 inches above the firebox opening. The fireplace throat or damper shall be located not less than 8 inches (203 mm) above the lintel. So a wooden mantel, for example, must not be close to the fireplace opening or firebox, which is the open space where your fire is lit. Part 4: Why is My Chimney Chase Cover Leaking? 12 fireplace opening 6 square foot. Factory Built Fireplaces 9.22.9. R1001.7Lintel and throat. Smoke travels 120-420feet per minute under fire conditions 3) Cannot be concealed. All Rights Reserved. The throat of the chimney, where the smoke chamber tapers to the size of the flue, should be no less than 8 inches above the firebox, and should be at least 4 inches deep. Fireplace clearance. The standard building code is 6 inches of minimum clearance around the opening of the fireplace and it must be surrounded by a noncombustible material. (2) fireplace inserts and hearth mounted stoves vent ed through the throat of a fireplace described in Sentence (1) may be installed in existing fireplace s only if a minimum thickness of 190 mm of solid masonry is provided between the smoke chamber and any existing combustible materials, unless the insert is listed for lesser clearances. Unlike UL or some other "listing" the building code is not proprietary and the sections which regulate residential construction are "prescriptive" so that they can be understood and followed by a contractor or craftsman without needing to hire and engineer. Once you've decided on the type of fireplace you want, you'll need to consider the required specifications. According to Ohio building code 2111.2, footings and foundations for fireplaces and chimneys must be composed of concrete or solid masonry. A shutoff valve must: 1) Be located in the same room as the fireplace. A mantel must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening.