18
DRAINAGE AND VENTILATION
Flare
Fireplaces recommends leaving the included Storm Doors on the fireplace when it is not in use, to prevent
any accumulation of moisture inside the unit. Although the fireplace is designed to operate outdoors safely, rain
and other sources of moisture may enter the fireplace cavity, which may cause water to collect inside the chase
and base of the unit within the fireplace enclosure.
When choosing a location for your fireplace, care must be taken to avoid areas where excessive moisture or
running water may become an issue. To prevent moisture or water from collecting underneath the fireplace, the
builder must provide a means to drain water from under the fireplace. This needs to happen before positioning the
fireplace in its location. It is recommended that a sealed corrosion resistant drain pan with provisions for drainage
be positioned underneath the fireplace. Flare has over 55 models of fireplaces, so the drainage size will vary from
project to project. The depth of the fireplaces does not change between each model, however the length does. We
must account for the length of each individual fireplace to ensure the drainage pan will collect all running water
that may accrue inside this unit.
When planning for the installation of the fireplace the framing height must be increased to accommodate a drain
pan and any additional drainage piping required. The drain pan needs to be constructed from corrosion resistant
metal, or other suitable materials such as an ice and water shield membrane. A means of drainage out of the drain
pan such as piping, or weep holes must also be provided. A slope of 1/4” (6mm) per foot towards the drain port is
recommended. Note: The fireplace must be installed on a level surface to ensure proper drainage. It is the
responsibility of the builder to ensure proper drainage provisions have taken place. The Flare unit drains from the
center of the fireplace, using slotted holes provided. You can see a drawing of this below.
Ventilation under the unit is also needed to allow air movement and proper evaporation of moisture under the
fireplace. Please plan for an area of 70 Sq. inch for air ventilation under the fireplace. Ventilation will allow the
chase to dry and prevent moister issues.
Flare
Fireplaces recommend building a rectangular frame only platform, studs only, to allow water to exit the
fireplace and drop down to a slope or drain pan.
NOTE:
Although the builder should plan for a slot to drain water, the fireplace must be installed leveled.
VENT FREE FIREPLACE
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BOTTOM VIEW
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DRAIN PLUGS
