Fireplace Mantle Clearance Validator

Verify code-compliant clearances for fireplace mantles

Project Details
Enter your measurements and requirements
Results
Calculated estimates for your project
Required Clearance (Min)70.0"
Current Clearance12.0"
Compliance Status✗ NON-COMPLIANT
Additional Clearance Needed58.0"
Hearth Extension (Front)16" minimum
Hearth Extension (Sides)8" minimum each side
Mantle Height from Floor58.0"

Additional Information

About This Calculator

Our fireplace mantle clearance calculator helps verify that combustible mantle installations meet fire safety codes. Building codes require specific minimum distances between fireplace openings and combustible materials to prevent fire hazards, and these requirements increase with mantle projection depth.

The calculator follows IRC (International Residential Code) and NFPA 211 guidelines that specify clearance requirements based on mantle depth. A deeper mantle that projects further into the room requires more vertical clearance because it's exposed to more heat from the firebox.

This tool is essential for homeowners installing or replacing fireplace mantles, contractors verifying compliance, and anyone asking "how high does my mantle need to be?" or "is my fireplace mantle safe?" Non-compliant installations can cause fires or fail home inspections.

How to Use This Calculator

Follow these steps to verify your mantle clearance:

  1. Measure your firebox opening width and height
  2. Measure how far your mantle projects out from the wall
  3. Measure the current or planned height from firebox top to mantle bottom
  4. Review the required clearance and compliance status
  5. Adjust mantle height or depth if non-compliant
Frequently Asked Questions

Free Fireplace Clearance Calculator - Code Compliance Tool | DIYProject.ai