Replies

1. 
   Dave45 | May 05, 2009 04:13pm | #1

   AFIK, code wants 12" between the edges of the firebox and any combustible material.

1. 
   Piffin | May 05, 2009 11:39pm | #4

   12" above, but 6-8" at sides, depending on jurisdiction. 

    

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1. 
   Dave45 | May 05, 2009 11:54pm | #5

   I'm pretty sure that it's 12" all around in this area. I'm also pretty sure that this one is pretty high in the long list of ignored code requirements.I made a mantel for a customer in January and included installation in the bid. When I was telling the customer about the 12" requirement and what I would need to do to meet it, he began asking very detailed questions about how I planned to mount it. He then announced that he wanted to save a few bucks and install it himself. Why do I suspect that the mantel isn't 12" away from the firebox? - lol

2. 
   oops | May 05, 2009 06:38pm | #2

   International Residential Code (2003)

   R1003.12 Mantel and trim. Woodwork or other combustible materials shall not be placed within 6 inches of a fireplace opening. Combustible material within 12 inches of the fireplace opening shall not project more 1/8 inch for each 1-inch distance from such opening.

   As I read it.  At 6" from the opening, you could have, say a piece of molding/trim 3/4" thick. that could increase in thickness at a rate of 1/8"/ft. until you reach 12 inches from the opening. At that point the trim could be 1-1/2" thick. Twelve inches and beyond you can go wild.

   Hope this is what you needed. Good Luck

3. 
   Piffin | May 05, 2009 11:31pm | #3

   so are you building a new mantle and surround, or just tiling the brick masonry face?

   Existing is grandfathered.

   New, means 12" clear above, plus an eighth for every inch of projection

    

    

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