16
Fireplace Finishes & Combustible Trim
Clearances
Hearth Material & Dimensions – Codes are strict regarding the
use of proper materials for hearth extensions and the proper
dimensional characteristics.
All hearth extensions must be made of code-rated,
noncombustible materials such as tile, brick, concrete or
stone. Grand Meridian Fireplaces usually have an opening of
approximately 8 sq. ft. (eight square feet) that translates to a
hearth extension of about 20” (twenty inches) at the fireplace’s
opening and about 12” (twelve inches) extension at each side.
These relative dimensions are also covered by code. Note
that it is required that metal safety strips must be laid on the
floor of the non-combustible raised platform. These should be
26 gauge and measure 4” (four inches) wide. They need to
extend half way under the platform and half way under the
hearth extension material (see Figure 18).
Attention:
You will note that there will be a gap between the
fireplace front and the extension of the non-combustible hearth
material. Be certain that you seal this with non-combustible
material.
Mantle and Mantle Shelf Clearances
As with any radiant heat fireplace, all Grand Meridian
Fireplaces must comply with building code safety clearances,
for units that have openings of 6 sq. ft. (six square feet) or
greater.
For Mantel clearances see Figure 9.
Walls that Adjoin – your fireplace cannot be installed closer
than 2 ft. (two feet) to any adjoining walls in the room where
the fireplace is.
Caution in Regards to Combustibles – If any part of the
fireplace or objects in the room (curtains, rugs, paint, cushions,
etc.) start to show warping or discoloration due to heat from
the fireplace, it is time to take immediate action. Do not use
the fireplace until you have figured out how to address the
problem. You are facing a potential fire hazard. IHP cannot be
responsible for the make-up of material on the exterior of the
fireplace you have chosen, nor can IHP be held responsible
for the materials in a room that may be responding negatively
to heat. However, in almost all cases, there is a solution to
the problem, either by making adjustments to airflow or the
modifications to the room itself.
Installing Outside Combustion (make-up) Air
1) The Grand Meridian Fireplace needs enough make-up air to
function properly and some local building codes may require
outside combustion air to be provided. If no make-up air is
provided, improper flue drafting may occur, creating negative
pressure whereby smoke may enter the home, especially in
homes that are very well insulated and tightly sealed. Check
local building codes for specific requirements.
2) Install Combustion Air Kit MM4-AK into the Grand Meridian
Firebox through the side wall opening provided. The tubing
that goes out of the firebox wall must feed into a flexible
metal conduit as the source for outside combustible air. It can
go straight out through an outside wall or into a ventilated
crawl space. If crawl space is used, check codes for proper
termination.
3) Be sure that you carefully check the source of the outside air
before you choose the site for your air intake. You don’t want
a place where snow will collect, where bushes or trees will be
growing or a location that is too close to any other structure.
4) Install a screened termination cap to keep out animals.
Adding a Gas Pipe
You may elect to add a vented decorative gas appliance
(gas log) to your Grand Meridian Fireplace. If so, follow the
installation instructions from the Decorative Gas Appliance
manufacturer. Familiarize yourself with requirements for
installation as outlined by the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI
Z223.1. This gas pipe provision should only be used on a
decorative gas appliance.
1) You can route the gas piping practically anywhere in the
firebox – the floor, back wall or side walls. You will just need
a masonry drill; the instructions from the gas appliance
manufacturer will be very straightforward.
2) Fill in the holes you have drilled around the gas piping with
the regular mortar.
3) Follow the Gas Log manufacturer’s instructions.
Adding Electrical Connection
Like the gas line, electrical feed lines can be run through
the floor, back wall, or side walls. Follow local building and
electrical code requirements.
Grand Meridian Chimney
Systems:
The Grand Meridian Fireplace requires the following chimney
systems:
All chimney systems must be installed with an integrated
damper/base plate installed on top of unit. Installers are
cautioned to put the chimney system together exactly as
instructed and shown in chimney manufacturer’s guide. Any
variations may have serious consequences resulting in an
accident or malfunction. If instructions are not followed, the
warranty on the product will become null and void.