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This is the first of six
sections, please scroll down to the bottom for further questions.
Fireplaces, Hearths and
Guarding
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Q1.
Does an open fire need a hearth?
Q2. How big does the hearth
have to be?
Q3. I don’t want to
renew my carpet. Can a hearth be made to fit?
Q4. Does my open fire need a guard?
Q5. What materials and colours
are available for mantels, surrounds and hearths?
Q1. Does an open fire need
a hearth?
Yes. Unless the fire manufacturer’s instructions specifically
state otherwise, all open fires (solid fuel or gas) need a hearth.
Q2. How big does the hearth
have to be?
A hearth should extend forward from the fireplace opening 300mm
(12”) and 150mm (6”) either side of the fireplace
opening. These measurements are taken from the front of fireplace
opening or, where the fire itself is recessed into the opening,
from the front of the burner. Where a stove is installed in
a fireplace recess, the hearth must extend 500mm (20”)
in front of the stove and 150mm (6”) either side. Where
a stove is freestanding and not within a fireplace recess, the
hearth must be not less 840mm (33”) square and the stove
itself not placed closer than 150mm (6”) to any of its
edges.
The hearth for a stove that has doors that open must extend
a minimum of 300mm (12”) from the front of the stove and
for stoves where the doors cannot be opened, 225mm (9”)
from the front. Hearths for fireplaces and stoves must be at
least 50mm (2”) deep and manufactured from non combustible
material.
It is very important when ordering a fireplace and hearth to
make sure your supplier knows what type of appliance is going
to be used. A hearth material and construction suitable for
a gas fire may not be suitable for a solid fuel fire.
Q3. I don’t want to renew my
carpet. Can a hearth be made to fit?
Yes, made to measure hearths are available from many manufacturers
but their dimensions must comply with those detailed in A2 earlier.
Q4. Does my open fire need a guard?
A suitable fire guard is recommended for all open fires for
the protection of the young, infirm, elderly and pets. A fire
guard not only prevents hot material from falling from the fire
but also prevent clothing from coming into contact with the
naked flames or embers.
Q5. What materials and colours are
available for mantels, surrounds and hearths?
A wide range of materials are suitable for mantels and surrounds
but only relatively few materials are suitable for hearths.
Marble surrounds, mantels and hearths are usually displayed
to demonstrate their style and colour compatibility and there
are usually many alternative colours and finishes. Your retailer
will be able to provide further information.
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