Residential Building Inspector B1Public Safety and Special ConstructionMedium
An inspector is reviewing the installation of a factory-built fireplace. What is the minimum required clearance from the sides and rear of the fireplace to combustible materials?
- A1 inch
- B2 inches
- C6 inches
- D0 inches
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 0 inches
IRC R1004.1 states that factory-built fireplaces shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and their listing. Typically, listed factory-built fireplaces are designed for 'zero clearance' to combustible materials at the sides and rear, as indicated by their listing.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This clearance is generally insufficient if not listed for zero clearance, and unnecessary if it is.
- B. This is a common clearance for masonry chimneys, not typically factory-built fireplaces.
- C. This is an excessive clearance for factory-built fireplaces and would not be required by code for listed units.
Factory-Built Fireplace Clearance
Factory-built fireplaces are tested and listed units that often permit 'zero clearance' to combustible materials at their sides and rear, provided they are installed according to their listing and manufacturer's instructions.
- Installation must follow manufacturer's instructions and listing.
- Many are listed for zero clearance to combustibles.
- This differs significantly from masonry fireplace clearance requirements.
Memory trick: Factory-built, no space needed, but masonry fireplaces, more room indeed.