For built-in gas fireplace models, common dimensions range from widths from [26" to 65"], heights from [15" to 25"], and depths from [15" to 22"]. These fireplaces go well with either a fireplace surround or a fireplace mantel, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and creating a cohesive design element in any room.
Standard fireplace dimensions depend on whether it's a gas or wood-burning fireplace. While there is no set fireplace size, our Timeless Series, which has a standard fireplace size, ranges from 36” to 48” wide and 21” to 48” tall.
We recommend leaving at least 45cm between the top of your fire and electrical equipment, such as a TV. Practice the same caution for all flammable objects, with at least 60cm in all directions from your fireplace, especially if the flame is open, as with our wall-mounted Alden range.
The National Fire Code dictates that any combustible material (e.g., wood mantel or similar trim) must be at least six inches from the firebox opening.
FYI: Technically, the hearth is where the fire is, and the hearth extension is the part that sticks out in front of the fireplace. Generally 36″ wide wood burning manufactured fireplaces require a 16″ deep hearth extension (two bricks) and 42″ fireplaces require 20″ deep (two and a half bricks).
In general, an outdoor fireplace should be at least 10 feet from the house, property line or any other fence/structure. Code requirements in your area could require more distance and could also regulate chimney height.
The minimum distance from walls when installing a fireplace is determined based on the specific requirements of the manufacturer. However, in general, it is recommended that the back wall of the fireplace be at a distance of at least 20 cm from non-combustible materials.
This rule means that your chimney's shortest side needs to be at least 3 feet above the roof penetration, and its top has to be 2 feet higher than any part of the building that's within 10 feet.
The space above a fireplace mantel is too high for comfortable TV viewing. The center of the screen should be at eye level when you are sitting and facing the screen. Unless your fireplace is unusually low, its height will likely conflict with the optimal viewing height and angle for the TV.
A zero-clearance fireplace is a premanufactured metal firebox that is completely self-contained and insulated, which keeps the outside of the fireplace from getting too hot, protecting the materials surrounding the unit. This allows it to need zero distance from combustible materials, such as walls, wood and paneling.
Direct vent gas fireplaces can be installed almost anywhere in in a home where natural gas or liquid propane is available. Installation is flexible due to zero clearance construction, which requires minimal space between the fireplace and wallboard or wood (combustible materials).
Solid Fuel Burning Fireplace Hearths
For solid fuel burning fireplaces, a hearth is essential for safety. If you are fitting one into your home, there are a few regulations you must follow make sure you follow to ensure you are protected from fire hazards.
Almost every insurance company and government-sponsored organization recommends placing furniture at least three feet from a fireplace. Any closer than three feet, and the risk of an ember landing on a flammable material increases dramatically – even for fireplaces with screens.
2. Leave Room For Your Fireplace Surround. Regardless of how small you go with your fireplace opening width, don't forget about the surround. When you envision the design of your fireplace, be sure to add 12 to 24 inches on either side of the fireplace for a surround.
As a basic benchmark, a small gas fireplace will heat less than 500 sq. ft., a medium gas fireplace will heat between 500 – 1,000 sq. ft, a large gas fireplace will heat between 1,000 – 2,200 sq. ft., and an extra-large gas fireplace will heat over 2,200+ sq.
Modern fireplaces – both wood-burning and gas-fueled – are much easier to install than building a traditional masonry unit. Fireplace inserts are even easier, because they're pre-built from the factory and require only an opening to fit in to.
A recommended distance between your TV and electric fire is between 8-10 inches, however many experts within both the world of fires and TVs say that getting closer to 12 inches is ideal. Ultimately it depends on how hot your fire gets and the overall shape of the fireplace.
Yes, you can mount your TV above a fireplace, but it is not recommended as the heat from the fireplace can damage your TV.
The best size range for a TV over a fireplace is between 55 and 65 inches. However, the viewing distance and individual preferences may require a larger TV. It is advised not to choose a TV that is noticeably bigger or smaller than the fireplace as it may create an unbalanced look in the room.
All combustible mantels and similar trim shall be kept at least 6 inches from fireplace openings.
(c) An existing chimney may only be utilized with one or multiple gas appliances if the interior area of the chimney is no greater than seven times the area of the smallest flue to be connected to that chimney. burning appliances is used with an appliance using fuel gas, an accessible cleanout shall be provided.
It's recommended that an outdoor fireplace should be installed at least 10 feet away from your house, property line, or any other structure, such as a fence. Code requirements in your area could require more distance and could also regulate chimney height, so always educate yourself on your local building codes.
It is possible to install drywall around a gas fireplace, but it is not ideal. This is because drywall is highly flammable. The best option would be to use type X drywall, which is gypsum-based. Standard building code dictates a minimum clearance of six inches between a fireplace and any combustible material.
To the Side
If wall space allows, positioning your TV to the side of your fireplace will visually lengthen the size of the room. It will also give the fireplace some breathing room and create negative space (which is great for reducing the distraction of TV and will enhance the fires ambience and impact).
The entire route from fire to chimney terminal needs to be smooth, straight and vertical wherever possible. Where bends absolutely cannot be avoided, they should be very gentle, a maximum of 2x 45º and the chimney height increased by at least a metre to compensate.