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HVAC Forums => HVAC Help => Topic started by: wantboost on November 17, 2022, 03:34:49 PM

Title: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: wantboost on November 17, 2022, 03:34:49 PM
Where can I find the clearances for around the gas fireplace
I assumme just drywall not allowed
Does it state what type of materials are to be used
here's something tricky one can use tile that come with a mesh backing
Title: Re: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: Admin on November 17, 2022, 05:00:35 PM
Most fireplace manuals I see these days are zero clearance but it's always best to double check the installation manual.

Some will ask for 2" clearance to any venting whereas our Gas Code only wants 1" to B-vent.  Cement board would be considered non-combustible but most manuals allow the use of wood framing and drywall around the fireplace.

Some of the linear models will require cement board due to clearances, so it really depends on what the installation manual says.
Title: Re: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: wantboost on November 17, 2022, 05:08:29 PM
Ok . I ll check the manual. If it is zero clearance then just drywall is ok??
Title: Re: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: Admin on November 17, 2022, 07:23:00 PM
Yes, to the unit itself.  Venting will always have separate clearances listed in the manual.
Title: Re: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: NoDIY on November 17, 2022, 07:50:52 PM


All clearance varies from brand to brand and model to model. consult the installation manual

Mantel height as well as enclosure space and ceiling height will also be in there
Title: Re: Gas fireplace requirements ??
Post by: Porcupinepuffer on November 20, 2022, 08:41:21 AM
This varies fireplace to fireplace and manual to manual. A lot of it has to do with BTU's. Most fireplaces require minimum 1" around the sides and back of the unfinished part of the fireplace. You'll notice little triangle shaped standoffs to point this out. A lot of the times it's zero clearance in respect to being able to drywall up to the front top and sides of the fireplace because the unit has a fold around lip around the picture frame edge that allows for clearance. Some higher btu units will allow drywall along the sides of the fireplace, but then require cement board for the first 6" to 2' on the top part of the fireplace with steel framing on the top instead of wood framing. The venting also needs to be respected in how it's routed and put through the wall, or roof with its clearances. There's way too many fireplaces out there to gives an answer.