Opel 2 Hearth Extension options

[koselig]

Hi all!

We have installed an RSF Opel 2 as part of a renovation. The enclosure is in place, but without any hearth extension structure. A few questions:

1. I know code suggests it should go out 16" from the firebox. Do you recommend we go out further? I was thinking maybe 18" or 20" so there is more space for firewood, kids hanging out, etc.
2. Our idea is to use soapstone as the "seat" of the hearth extension. Would this be 3cm material like would be used for a countertop? I am wondering if this will be prohibitively expensive since they usually like to sell entire slabs for kitchens.
3. Has anyone done this with soapstone?

We are waiting to frame the hearth extension until we get this sorted.

The surround will be finished with Ardex Feather Finish to give it a "concrete" look. The house has a lot of reclaimed Douglas fir timbers so this would be interesting, I think. I will share more photos if you like. Really looking forward to first burn this Fall. We are in northern MN so it won't be long...

Thanks!

 

[begreen]

No problem. I prefer a more generous hearth than the minimum. Embers will occasionally spark out further than 16".

 

[koselig]

No problem. I prefer a more generous hearth than the minimum. Embers will occasionally spark out further than 16".

so would you say 20" out from the firebox should be about right?

 

[begreen]

so would you say 20" out from the firebox should be about right?

That would be good.