Fireplace Mantel Clearance

Fireplace Mantel Clearance

Exposed combustible mantels or trim may be placed directly on the masonry fireplace front surrounding the fireplace opening providing such combustible materials are not placed within 6 inches of a fireplace opening. Combustible material within 12 inches of the fireplace opening shall not project more than 1/8 inch for each 1-inch distance from such an opening. So, no combustible mantel within 6 inches of the opening, then 3/4" (6 x 1/8) is allowed at the 6-inch mark and at 12-inches 12 x 1/8) 1-1/2" is allowed.
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After that there is no requirement. For factory built fireplaces, you always refer to the listed instructions for mantel clearances. The code references are strictly for masonry fireplaces constructed to that code and do not apply to freestyle creations of architects and adventurous pyromaniacs. Note some fireplaces, esp. B-vented gas fireplaces usually have mantel requirements that will exceed this clearance. Also, vent free gas fireplaces will have a much greater clearance.
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