Hearth and Home Technologies BIR50 Chimney Height Requirements above roof line

North Star

EPA Certified Fireplace

2.Chimney Height Requirements (above roof line)

a.Major building codes specify a minimum chimney height above the roof top. These specifications are summarized in what is known as the Ten Foot Rule. This rule states:

If the horizontal distance from the side of the chimney to the peak of the roof is 10 feet or less, the top of the chimney must be at least 2 feet above the peak of the roof, but never less than 3 feet in overall height above the highest point where it passes through the roof.

If the horizontal distance from the side of the chimney to the peak of the roof is more than 10 feet, a chimney height reference point is established on the surface of the roof a distance of 10 feet from the side of the chimney in a horizontal plane. The top of the chimney must be at least 2 feet above this reference point, but never less than 3 feet in height above the highest point where it passes through the roof. See Figure 12A.

b.These chimney heights are necessary in the interest of safety but do not ensure smoke-free operation. Trees, buildings, adjoining roof lines, adverse wind conditions, etc. may create a need for a taller chimney should smoking occur.

3.Number of Sections Required

To determine the chimney components needed to complete your particular installation, follow the steps below:

a.Determine the total vertical height of the fireplace installation. This dimension is measured from the base of the fireplace assembly to the point where the smoke exits the termination cap.

b.Subtract the effective height of the fireplace assembly from the overall height of the fireplace installation (measured from the base of the fireplace to the bottom of the termination cap).

c.Refer to Table 2 to determine what components must be selected to complete the fireplace installation.

d.Determine the number of firestop spacers, stabiliz- ers, roof flashing, etc. required to complete the fireplace installation.

IF 10

FEET OR

LESS

THEN

MUST BE AT

LEAST 2 FEET

BUT

NEVER LESS

THAN 3 FEET

Figure 12A- Chimney Height

Table 2

HEIGHT OF CHIMNEY COMPONENTS

Chimney Stabilizer

SL3	4-3/4”
Firestop Spacers
FS338	0”
FS339	0”
FS340	0”
Offsets/Returns
SL315	13-3/8”
SL330	14-1/2”
Roof Flashing
RF370	0
RF371	0
Chimney Sections*
SL306	4-3/4”
SL312	10-3/4”
SL318	16-3/4”
SL324	22-3/4”
SL336	34-3/4”
SL348	46-3/4”

*Dimensions reflect effective height.

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