Non-Combustible Materials Explained
What are Non-Combustible Materials?
Non-combustible materials are building materials that do not burn or ignite when subjected to expected levels of fire or heat. Examples of non-combustible materials include brick masonry, concrete blocks, hardy backer board, calcium silicate board, cement board, metal, and certain types of glass. These materials are rated for certain levels of direct flame impingement or heat rated according to your countries specific building laws.
What is the Clearance to Combustibles?
The clearance to combustibles is the tested and approved clearances for a specific fireplace unit. The clearances provide the minimum safe distance that combustible materials can be used without the heat from the fireplace causing damage or potentially increasing the risk of a fire. It is important to always ensure that your fireplace follows the manufacturers specific clearance to combustibles when planning a project. Fireplaces are complicated appliances, and you should always have it professionally installed by your local fireplace experts.
Why Are Non-Combustible Materials Required for Fireplaces?
Fireplaces produce a large amount of heat and using any building materials that are not properly rated as non-combustible can result in damage to your home or increased risk of fire.
With modern fireplaces, the building materials will not come into direct contact with flames as they are fully contained within the firebox, however the tremendous amount of heat can cause the framing or wall structure to bow, crack – or worse. This means you are not required to build an entire fireplace out of brick or cement and instead use non-combustible materials for framing, wall construction, and finishing.
Typically, fireplaces require steel framing and cement/concrete board when building within the unit’s clearance to combustibles. To finish the fireplace typically stone, tile or other non-combustible material is used to surround the face of the fireplace and provide the finished look. To keep construction costs down, wood framing and drywall can be used to complete the chase or rest of the installation if it adheres to the manufacturers stated clearance to combustibles.
What are Zero-Clearance Fireplaces?
Zero-clearance fireplaces do not have a minimum clearance to combustibles. Depending on the particular unit, Zero-Clearance units may be able to use wood framing, regular drywall, and any finishing material (including wood or wallpaper) direct to the edge of the firebox. In addition, zero-clearance units may also allow TV’s and artwork to be safely hung directly above without fear of damage. While these are general statements, each unit and installation is unique and the manufacturers specifications should always be followed.
Some Regency fireplaces use our patented heat transfer technology called Cool Wall System to reduce or sometimes even eliminate clearances to combustibles. Our Cool Wall System draws excess heat away from the interior of the wall and distribute it into the room with the use of natural drafting and a chase vent system. The result is decreased radiant heat directly in front of the fireplace and inside the wall allowing for virtually zero clearance to combustibles. Some Regency fireplaces featuring our Cool Wall System have an optional Cool Wall installation and therefore would not be zero-clearance without being installed as such. While these are general statements, each unit and installation is unique and the manufacturers specifications should always be followed.
Finishing Materials for Zero-Clearance Fireplaces
One of the greatest features of zero-clearance fireplaces is that they can be finished in virtually any building material to create a unique and stunning feature wall or design element within the home. While certain materials may be restricted by certain manufacturers, the following shows some of the most popular finishing materials of Regency City Series fireplaces with Cool Wall System.
Feeling inspired? See how our customers have used the flexibility of our Cool Wall System to create stunning fireplace features in their home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a mantel non-combustible?
A mantel is considered non-combustible when it’s made from materials that do not catch fire, burn, or release flammable gases when exposed to heat. Common non-combustible mantel materials include concrete, metal, stone, and brick.
Non-combustible mantels allow for closer installation to the firebox without compromising safety, meeting building code requirements for heat resistance.
What is the best non-combustible material?
Choosing the best non-combustible material depends on your design preference and practical needs.
- Stone (e.g., granite, marble): Durable, heat-resistant, and offers a natural aesthetic.
- Concrete: Highly versatile, allowing for custom designs in modern spaces.
- Metal (e.g., steel or aluminum): Sleek, durable, and ideal for contemporary designs.
Each material offers fire protection while enhancing your fireplace’s overall look.
What is an example of a non-combustible material?
Examples of non-combustible materials include stone, brick, concrete, steel, and tile. These materials are designed to withstand high temperatures without burning or releasing flammable gases, making them ideal for fireplace surrounds and mantels.
How do I know if I have a zero-clearance fireplace?
A zero clearance fireplace is designed to be installed directly against combustible materials like drywall or wood without requiring a buffer zone. If you did not purchase and have the fireplace installed yourself, make sure to check the fireplace manual or manufacturer’s label for details on clearance ratings.
You May Also Like…