Extending flush hearth

[Raoul]

While my existing setup seems to code it has been pointed out that it’s the bare minimum and I would like to have it demo’d and rebuilt.

The door on the Ashford definitely swings out pretty far and the setup makes me nervous. I would like to add at least another foot of depth to the hearth.

Any thoughts on what I ask to be done? I feel like the underneath is suspect. It may not be apparent from the attached photos but it’s thin and I am surprised it held the stove up when it was installed. Seems like it should be supported underneath.

Anybody know a contractor in South Puget Sound to reach out to?

 

[begreen]

Personally, I'd leave it as it is. The protection is generous.

 

[rwhite]

As far as thinness and strength go it appears to have at least 4" of concrete below the tile. I see no evidence of stress or cracking and it probably has been in place awhile. I think your good there. You can have custom hearth rugs made if you want more piece of mind and ember protection. If you're burning doug fir I dont know if you'll ever get enough protection. that stuff likes to pop embers a long way. Just have to be careful and watch it.

 

[Raoul]

As far as thinness and strength go it appears to have at least 4" of concrete below the tile. I see no evidence of stress or cracking and it probably has been in place awhile. I think your good there. You can have custom hearth rugs made if you want more piece of mind and ember protection. If you're burning doug fir I dont know if you'll ever get enough protection. that stuff likes to pop embers a long way. Just have to be careful and watch it.

I appreciate your thoughts.

Actually it tapers. Thickest near foundation and thins out towards the floor joists.
And yes it’s been this way for 100 years.

A wool rug and caution seem to be my moves until I find a contractor.