How far from the wall should a fireplace be?

How far from the wall should a fireplace be?

36 inches
According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), a fireplace must be 36 inches away from bare walls. If the walls around the fireplace are protected by a heat-resistant material or some form of insulation, the fireplace can be less than 36 inches from the wall.

How much room is needed for a fireplace?

You should make sure your fireplace location is at least 36 inches from a wall that lacks protection. You can reduce the clearance to 12 inches if you add a wall protector. The front and side of the unit should have a non-combustible extension.

Is a mantle required on a fireplace?

Do You Need A Fireplace Mantel? A fireplace does not need to be furnished with a mantel, but a mantel can enhance the look of a fireplace either as part of fireplace surround or as a standalone mantel shelf.

What is considered a non-combustible wall?

Non-combustible materials are building materials that do not burn or ignite when subjected to expected levels of fire or heat. Examples of non-combustible materials include brick masonry, concrete blocks, hardy backer board, calcium silicate board, cement board, metal, and certain types of glass.

Can I use cement board as a heat shield?

Hardi cement board is an inexpensive solution that will form the foundation of an effective heat shield for any application. Hardi cement board is also designed to have ceramic, porcelain or stone tiles installed over it to cover and beautify the heat shield after it is installed.

How high should you mount a TV above a fireplace?

Above Fireplace Mounting The rule of thumb is, if your mantel is less than four feet from the floor, you should mount your TV about 12 inches above it. This rule applies to a fireplace without a mantel as well.

What is a good height for a fireplace?

Again, “proper” height is relatively subjective to your fireplace, but average or standard fireplace mantel height construction is around 54” above the hearth’s floor. Your fireplace may fit this dimension or it might be on the shorter or taller end of the spectrum when it comes to mantel height above fireplace.

Do you need a hearth in front of gas fireplace?

Most modern gas only fireplaces with fixed glass do not require a hearth extension. The manufacturers usually require a 36″ clear space in front (no furniture, etc.). Now if this was a wood burning fireplace that had a gas insert, the hearth extension would still be required.

Is drywall considered a combustible?

Gypsum board, because of its combustible facing, will not pass ASTM E136. Therefore remember, under the Mechanical Subcode, gypsum wallboard is classified as a combustible material.

Is cement board considered non-combustible?

Yes, HardieBacker® 1/4″ Cement Board is deemed noncombustible when tested to ASTM E 136 and can be used in conjunction with other noncombustible materials around a fireplace.

Is there a national fire code for fireplaces?

Local codes, which vary nationwide, always come before any other regulations, including national codes. But, if your locality doesn’t have a fire safety code that spells out fireplace regulations, follow those developed for the National Standard Building Code or the National Fire Code.

What is the building code for a fireplace mantel?

National Standard Building Code Information 2114.3 Masonry-built Fireplaces 4114.3.10 – All combustible mantels and similar trim shall be kept at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening.

What are the rules for opening a fireplace?

But, if your locality doesn’t have a fire safety code that spells out fireplace regulations, follow those developed for the National Standard Building Code or the National Fire Code. National Fire Code: All combustible material must be at least 6 inches from the opening of the firebox.

What do you need to know about the fire code?

National Fire Code: All combustible material must be at least 6 inches from the opening of the firebox. Combustible material includes all wood trim, framing, mantels and anything else that can ignite and burn. Each 1/8 inch that trim or another combustible material protrudes requires an extra inch of clearance. (see reference 1)