Non Combustible Building Materials Around Fireplace Opening
According to the video, it is important to use non-combustible building materials around the fireplace opening for safety reasons, even though it may not be strictly required by building codes.
The presenter emphasizes that although building codes require a 12-inch clearance on the sides and top and an 18-inch clearance on the bottom of the fireplace opening from combustible materials like drywall, it's advisable to use non-combustible materials like wonder board or lath and plaster in these areas.
This is because drywall can dry out, become flaky, and potentially catch fire over time, especially with fireplaces like Franklin stoves that generate more heat.
