question about code for hearth extension

[aatal]

i have a second upstairs fireplace. we are installing new floors. i want to place some tile extending out from the hearth, but my wife says no. The hearth will be raised 5 inches when the new floors are installed. I have read for wood burning inserts, we just need ember protection. Am i right in thinking this means a hearth rug would be sufficient? i have attached a picture to make it a bit clearer. i live in massachusetts, if that makes a difference.

 

[bholler]

i have a second upstairs fireplace. we are installing new floors. i want to place some tile extending out from the hearth, but my wife says no. The hearth will be raised 5 inches when the new floors are installed. I have read for wood burning inserts, we just need ember protection. Am i right in thinking this means a hearth rug would be sufficient? i have attached a picture to make it a bit clearer. i live in massachusetts, if that makes a difference.

If it is a permanent extension it needs to be built to code for a wood burning fireplace. If it is not permanent you can follow the stove manufacturers requirements. And no a hearth rug is not adequate

 

[begreen]

The extension from most inserts is 16" from the door glass. Not all inserts are ember protection only, but the raised hearth may help reduce the requirement to ember protection for some stoves. If the extension requirement is ember protection only then a simple sheet of metal will suffice. This could be stainless, painted steel, copper, etc. Tile is fine too, or a stone tile like slate. A hearth rug is not permanent and insufficient. Tell your wife there is no wiggle room with the insert requirements. This is a safety issue.

 

[aatal]

yeah, she's willing to let it just be decorative. luckily i have a concrete slab with tile downstairs so i can put whatever size insert i want down there.

thanks guys