A mantel must be at least 6 inches from the fireplace opening.
Building code gas fireplace surround.
Parts of the mantel assembly located along the sides of the fireplace opening which project more than 1 1 2 inches 38mm from the face of the fireplace shall have additional clearance equal to the projection.
For a fireplace with a larger opening of more than 6 square feet the icc requires a hearth that extends 20 inches or more in front and 12 inches or more along the sides.
National standard building code information.
These are usually based on the international building code standards along with standards set by the national fire code.
Parts of the mantel assembly located along the sides of the fireplace opening which project more than 1 1 2 inches 38mm from the face of the fireplace shall have additional clearance equal to the projection extension beyond 1 1 2 inches.
The hearth design must be.
Circulating air ducts used with steel fireplace units shall be constructed of metal or masonry.
The firebox lining shall be encased with solid masonry to provide a total thickness at the back and sides of not less than 8 inches 203 mm of which not less than 4 inches 102 mm shall be of solid masonry or concrete.
Local building codes take precedence over national and international codes but it s best if your fireplace meets or exceeds these standards.
National standard building code.
Mantel corbels and brackets attached along the sides of the opening must have additional clearance if they project more than 1 1 2 inches out from the face of the fireplace.
2114 3 10 all combustible mantels and similar trim shall be kept at least 6 inches from fireplace opening.