Thinking of installing a new fireplace in your home? Fireplaces are great additions to your home to keep you warm during the cooler months, plus, they add a unique character and charm that is difficult to replicate. However, before you install one, you need to consider the alterations required to make sure that your family is safe. In this post, we explore some of the key considerations and safety measures to take to ensure a warm, charming and safe fireplace.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is important to safely release smoke and gases from your fireplace. Especially with open wood fireplaces, you will need a chimney or flue system to allow smoke to escape. You should also follow these regulations for your flue:
- Must be a minimum length of 4.6 metres from floor to ceiling.
- Must extend at least 600mm from the roofline of your home.
- A minimum of 3 metres should be left around the flue’s end.
- Should be sized appropriately to the size of your fireplace.
For more information and for schematic diagrams check out Zen Fireplace’s elaboration of the Australian and New Zealand standards for domestic solid fuel burning codes.
Consider Clearance Size
Ensure that the surroundings of the fireplace are protected. In NSW, the clearance for wood fireplaces is at least 300mm away from combustible materials such as furniture and curtains. This distance is to ensure that the combustible materials won’t accidentally catch fire.
You may also consider using fireplace hearths to protect the surroundings including floors. The hearth must be constructed with non-combustible materials such as stone or tiles to withstand the high temperatures. It serves as a protective barrier and can also be a decorative piece that complements your fireplace.
Install Safety Screens
Add an extra layer of protection by installing safety screens around the fireplace. These screens may prevent accidental burns and embers from escaping. If you have children or pets, this is a safety measure that you should prioritise when installing a fireplace. Choose heat-resistant safety screens and regularly maintain them to keep them effective.
Install Fire-Resistant Plasterboard
When performing renovations or building from scratch it’s a wise move to utilise fireproof resistant plasterboard products around the fireplace and the ceiling where the flue or chimney are located. They are widely recognised for their ability to improve fire safety in residential settings. They can withstand intense heat and prevent fires from spreading. This is another reason why you should use plasterboard for your renovations.
While it is possible to install fire-resistant plasterboards yourself, it’s advisable to consult with a professional plasterer. They can ensure the boards are properly placed and seamlessly integrated with surrounding surfaces.
Compliance With Building Codes
Lastly, always adhere to local building codes when installing a fireplace. You should be familiar with the requirements, restrictions, and appropriate materials to be used. Obtain permits from your local officials and have scheduled inspections to ensure that your fireplace meets the safety standards. This will also reduce the risk to your family.
Consider Gas or Electric Alternatives
As you can see there are some important considerations to take into account when installing a wood fireplace. Before you go to the trouble of installing a traditional fireplace you could also consider modern alternatives like gas or electric fireplaces. These mimic the look and feel of a traditional fireplace but can be installed without as many alterations to your home.
Wood fireplaces are complex and costly to install, requiring regular maintenance to prevent buildup in the chimney. Gas fireplaces need less maintenance than wood but still require regular gas line inspections. Electric fireplaces are easy to install and require minimal upkeep since they don’t produce ashes, soot, or creosote, making them a convenient choice for low-maintenance heating.
Obviously, both gas and electric fireplaces don’t provide as much charm as the real thing but for those who are seeking a low-maintenance option then either of these alternatives might be a better fit.
Summary
Fireplaces add a unique charm to homes that cannot be understated. However, there are also considerable alterations that are required in order to keep the occupants of the home and your property safe from fire and smoke. From choosing the right type of fireplace to complying with building codes, these alterations give a safer and more enjoyable environment in your home without the risk of burning the place down.
