Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - insulation against interior fireplace wall

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DrPowercat
10-01-04, 05:22 PM
I have a closet on the second floor above the fireplace. The back wall of the closet is the concrete interior wall of the fireplace. Previous owners have painted this wall and it is mostly flaked off. I want to convert this closet into a home office. My plan is to put up bead board all around the closet. Can I put fiberglass insultation directly against this concrete wall before putting up the wood? I do not think much heat comes through the wall when the fireplace is in use, but I am not sure. Would this be a fire hazard or is this safe?
Thanks

richinva
10-02-04, 04:42 AM
Unfaced fiberglass insulation is not considered a combustible, so you should be OK there. However, check with your local code about clearances of your furring strips/studs for your board attachment. The 2000 IRC says that you need to keep combustibles at least 4" away from the rear of the fireplace on an interior wall, up to the height of the firebox.

I'd call the local building inspections dept., ask for a plan reviewer, and tell them what you're trying to do. Find out what code they are enforcing at present, so that you can do some additional research..............

Rich