What is zero clearance for fireplaces?
What is Zero Clearance? The term zero clearance refers to how close a fireplace can be to material that is combustible, typically framing. (The distance required before combustible material can be installed near a fireplace is known as the fireplace standoff.)
Should I buy a zero-clearance fireplace or a fireplace insert?
Both zero-clearance fireplaces and fireplace inserts are excellent home heating options. They’re both energy efficient and low maintenance options. If you have an old fireplace you want to improve, consider an insert. If your home doesn’t have a fireplace already, a zero-clearance fireplace is likely the best option.
What is a zero clearance pellet stove?
As it comes from their names, a wood fireplace with zero clearance requires logs to be burned inside, whereas, a gas-operated unit would be a zero clearance propane fireplace. Finally, a zero clearance pellet stove insert uses pellets for keeping up the fire.
Do you need a buffer zone around a fireplace?
(The distance required before combustible material can be installed near a fireplace is known as the fireplace standoff.) Because zero clearance fireplaces feature a larger quantity of insulation that do masonry fireplaces, it is not necessary to reserve a buffer zone between combustible materials and your fireplace.
What does zero clearance fireplace insert mean?
Zero clearance means the fireplace has its own insulation and it needs zero inches of clearance (distance) from combustible materials in the home. Basically a zero clearance fireplace is a self-contained firebox that is designed to be installed almost anywhere in your home.
How do I know if my fireplace is zero clearance?
The most obvious way of identifying a zero clearance fireplace is the existence of black metal, either exposed on the face or inside the firebox (Fig. #6). Some fireplace manufacturers are doing a better job of hiding the metal and making fireplaces that look more like masonry (Fig.
Can you put an insert in a zero clearance fireplace?
Inserts are designed small enough to slide into an existing open space. But zero clearance fireplaces are explicitly framed into a wall and cannot be inserted because of their large firebox size.
Does a zero clearance fireplace need a chimney?
Zero clearance fireplaces allow homeowners to add fireplaces even if they don't have the proper chimney to support a fireplace because zero clearance fireplaces use a system of vents in order to circulate air so they don't need chimneys to work and be safe.
How long do zero clearance fireplaces last?
The lifespan of a prefabricated fireplace is similar to that of major home appliances such as refrigerators. Even with regular maintenance and upkeep, prefabricated chimney units have a lifespan of 20-30 years.
How much does it cost to install a zero clearance fireplace?
Getting a contractor to come out and install a zero clearance fireplace is easy to do. The best part is that they are aesthetically pleasing and provide a higher energy output than your average fireplace. The average cost to install a zero clearance fireplace is $2,590. This includes labor and materials.
What is the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and a masonry fireplace?
While brick and ceramic are the most common materials used for the internal, or working, components of a masonry fireplace, the face material can also include stone, marble, granite, travertine and tile. Zero Clearance (or ZC) fireplaces are pre-manufactured metal fireboxes with coinciding metal flue pipe.
Are zero clearance fireplaces efficient?
Advantages of Zero-Clearance Fireplaces They're seven times more efficient than a masonry fireplace and are designed to fit into a small space. Fuel options for a zero-clearance fireplace include wood, pellets or gas, and many design options are available.
Does a zero clearance fireplace need a hearth?
This is because the construction and materials of the firebox on a Zero-Clearance Fireplace are made of materials that do not allow the outside of the fireplace to get hot enough to burn other materials. Zero-Clearance Fireplaces do not require a hearth in order to function properly.
How do you vent a zero clearance fireplace?
0:585:48Installing a Zero-Clearance Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe're going to put a fan in underneath. Here inside there under here yeah and the air circulates. InMoreWe're going to put a fan in underneath. Here inside there under here yeah and the air circulates. In here and around the cavity of the firebox. And comes out the top heated.
How much does it cost to put in a fireplace insert?
Installation and Labor Costs The insert itself will cost around $1,200, with labor costs running between $500 and $3,500 depending on the complexity of the job. You will need to take into account some extra expenses before you install your new gas insert.
What is a zero clearance?
Zero clearance simply means “0” inches are required between the fireplace and combustible materials. Therefore, framing dimensions are dramatically minimized – allowing the unit to be placed right up against interior or exterior walls.
What is the difference between a zero clearance fireplace and a masonry fireplace?
While brick and ceramic are the most common materials used for the internal, or working, components of a masonry fireplace, the face material can also include stone, marble, granite, travertine and tile. Zero Clearance (or ZC) fireplaces are pre-manufactured metal fireboxes with coinciding metal flue pipe.
How much clearance does a fireplace need?
All combustible materials must be 6"+ from the opening of the firebox. The National Fire Code requires all combustible material to be at least 6 inches from the opening of the firebox. For every 1/8 inch of protruding combustible material, you must account for an additional inch of clearance.
Does a zero clearance fireplace produce heat?
Both wood-burning and gas zero-clearance fireplaces are useful in a blackout and can provide light, heat, and at least minimal cooking benefits anytime.
How do you build a zero clearance fireplace?
0:085:48Installing a Zero-Clearance Fireplace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo it's very close that's the old-fashioned. Way right this way you can bring air right into theMoreSo it's very close that's the old-fashioned. Way right this way you can bring air right into the firebox. And not take any of your heated. Room air and glass doors help then the glass doors.
What is a Zero Clearance Fireplace?
A zero clearance fireplace is a self-contained firebox with a high level of insulation. It is a pre-manufactured fireplace that can fit into a small footprint within your home. Because of its small, self-contained characteristics, it will fit in almost any room in your home.
How Do Zero Clearance Fireplaces Work?
A zero clearance fireplace works similarly to a fireplace insert. It is a pre-manufactured metal firebox that is completely self-contained and insulated. This means it can be installed in walls and homes that aren’t designed for a traditional masonry fireplace.
Types of Zero Clearance Fireplaces
Zero clearance fireplaces are affordable and contemporary fireplace options. As opposed to traditional masonry fireplaces, they are much faster and cheaper to install. They also don’t require a hearth or chimney.
Pros and Cons of a Zero Clearance Fireplace
There are so many advantages to installing a zero clearance fireplace. But just like everything else, they come with their drawbacks too. Consider the pros and cons of this fireplace type to help you decide if it’s right for you.
Related Questions
A zero clearance fireplace is usually installed in a newer home or remodel, because it can’t slide into an existing masonry fireplace. ZC fireplaces can also fit into much smaller spaces, while sizing is limited with inserts.
What is zero clearance fireplace?
Basically a zero clearance fireplace is a self-contained firebox that is designed to be installed almost anywhere in your home.
What is a traditional fireplace?
The traditional style resembles older masonry style fireplaces. Traditional style fireplaces can use wood or gas logs or inserts to heat a room. Blower fans can help to circulate warm air throughout the home. Newer models are designed more as efficient room heaters.
Can you run sheetrock around a zero clearance fireplace?
It doesn’t require the use of tile or stone surround the fireplace and you can even run sheetrock right up to the edge of the firebox. There are a couple of different styles of zero clearance fireplaces. The traditional style resembles older masonry style fireplaces. Traditional style fireplaces can use wood or gas logs or inserts to heat a room.
What is a zero clearance fireplace insert?
Most of these features come from the zero clearance firebox and its ability to be in close contact with the surrounding objects without the hazard of setting them on fire.
What is clearance fireplace?
The clearance fireplace is a type of a non-masonry fireplace that does not take that much space. This is why it is very easy to find lots of placement variations for it in the house.
What is the difference between a gas fireplace and a wood fireplace?
As it comes from their names, a wood fireplace with zero clearance requires logs to be burned inside, whereas, a gas-operated unit would be a zero clearance propane fireplace.
What is a ZC fireplace?
This kind of fireplace also known as zc fireplace is a pre-manufactured type of heating device with the firebox that can be placed almost directly against the inflammable materials safely.
What are the benefits of a fireplace?
Another significant benefit of such fireplaces is that they are very efficient wasting less energy and heat unlike the traditional open fireplace .
Is it safe to have a fireplace in an apartment?
Such fireplaces are constructed from the materials that keep the walls of the device from heating too much which makes them safe for installing even in the apartments.
Can you install a ZC fireplace yourself?
Of course, counting on all the benefits of zc fireplaces, everyone would be interested in how those are installed. Well, the bad news is that you can’t do that yourself, so you will have to call the specialists.
What is zero clearance fireplace?
Zero-clearance fireplaces are pre-fabricated fireplaces that are safe to install within inches of combustible materials like wood, sheet rock or paneling. This type of fireplace is suitable for all houses, including mobile homes. It’s an ideal option for homes that don’t already have a fireplace. They’re seven times more efficient than a masonry fireplace and are designed to fit into a small space. Fuel options for a zero-clearance fireplace include wood, pellets or gas, and many design options are available.
What is the difference between a fireplace insert and a masonry fireplace?
One big difference between a masonry fireplace and a fireplace insert is that the insert comes with insulated glass doors that radiate heat into the room and increase heat efficiency. The fuel options for fireplace inserts are natural gas, propane, pellet, coal and wood. This choice will depend on the home’s size and your preference. Fireplace inserts also offer extra features, such as a fan or a thermostatic insert, which uses a remote control to regulate the fire.
What is zero clearance fireplace?
One of the key benefits of zero clearance wood fireplaces is that they can be installed in any type of residence, even in many mobile homes. These fireplace are also low-maintenance, as you don’t have to be concerned with costly chimney or masonry repairs, and they are easy to operate and install as well. These fireplaces are also more efficient than an open-hearth masonry fireplace. Open-hearth options may have just 10 percent efficiency, while zero clearance wood fireplaces can have an efficiency rating of up to 70 percent.
What is zero clearance?
The term zero clearance refers to how close a fireplace can be to material that is combustible, typically framing. (The distance required before combustible material can be installed near a fireplace is known as the fireplace standoff.) Because zero clearance fireplaces feature a larger quantity of insulation that do masonry fireplaces, ...
Why are fireplaces so popular?
Fireplaces remain a huge draw for homeowners because of their many advantages. Fireplaces, for example, can help to cut energy costs and thus are often viewed as highly eco-friendly heating sources. They can also provide warmth when your electricity goes out in addition to offering a romantic setting.
Do fireplaces have arched doors?
Some models feature arched doors, while others have square doors, for example. Built from superior-quality materials, these fireplaces fit into small areas and are quick to install against combustible materials. They also feature a cooler outside surface and require no hearth.
Do you need a buffer zone for a zero clearance fireplace?
Because zero clearance fireplaces feature a larger quantity of insulation that do masonry fireplaces, it is not necessary to reserve a buffer zone between combustible materials and your fireplace.
Is a zero clearance fireplace more efficient than an open heart fireplace?
Open-hearth options may have just 10 percent efficiency, while zero clearance wood fireplaces can have an efficiency rating of up to 70 percent.
What is zero clearance fireplace?
“Clearance” refers to the amount of space in-between the fireplace unit and the nearest combustible material. While the clearance in a zero clearance fireplace is not actually “zero inches,” the measurement is close to zero and is much less than that of a fireplace insert.
Why do fireplace inserts have a firebox?
This is because an insert will have a single, tapered firebox so that it can be slid into tighter spaces while the zero clearance fireplace (with the freedom of framing) needs a second firebox to protect the combustible materials from the heat of the first firebox.
Can you go as big as a fireplace insert?
Because zero clearance fireplaces are custom fitted to your house and framed into the wall, you don’t have the same limitations on the size of the viewing area as you do on a fireplace insert. With an insert, you can only go as big as your masonry fireplace unless you are willing and able to cut brick out of your fireplace.
Can a zero clearance fireplace be slid into an existing fireplace?
The reason “zero clearance” fireplaces cannot be slid into an existing fireplace is because of the firebox size. If you look at the back of a zero clearance fireplace (even one that has the same size front as an insert) the box will look much bigger. This is because an insert will have a single, tapered firebox so that it can be slid ...
Do zero clearance fireplaces require finish work?
Lastly, a zero clearance fireplace will always require some sort of finish work since it will be framed in. While we don’t install any finish work (tile, brick, rock, etc.) we can refer you to The Handimon: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Local-Service/The-Handiemon-321125221801443/
