Where Fire and Water Can Coexist
Until someone decides to install a fireplace in a closet, the bathroom fireplace remains the final frontier in the landscape of unique fireplace locations.
A lot of questions exist for a bathroom installation though, including;
- Can I put a fireplace in the bathroom?
- Which fireplaces can I install in a bathroom?
- Are there any restrictions?
- and most importantly, is this a worthwhile installation?
We will address those queries and more here, to clear up any grey area on this topic. It gives us a chance to show off a few eye-catching bathroom fireplace installations while we’re at it!
L42FSD (see through, connected to bedroom)
“Bathroom Approved” Fireplaces
Currently, under gas installation code B149, fireplaces installed in a bedroom or bathroom must be direct vent OR designated by the manufacturer as “bathroom approved”. Open gas burning fireplaces are not permitted within a bedroom sitting area or bathroom / master bath situation.
See through fireplaces installed as a divider between a bedroom and bathroom require shockproof glass on the bathroom side when adjacent to a tub. Ceramic glass would be a necessary feature for this type of installation.
Some local codes may have variations related to proximity from the tub to the fireplace glass. For example, 18-inches is considered a safe minimum distance by some inspectors. Make sure to consult with local authorities / inspectors for any variances required in your area.
Direct vent fireplaces are sealed from a room by design, and do not draw air from the bedroom area or outside. As a result, all direct vent fireplaces are a safe option for a bedroom / bathroom installation.
Safety Considerations
Glass
Splish splash, let’s talk about glass. A fireplace with high thermal shock rated glass is recommended due to to the possibility of water contact.
Typically this means ceramic glass is the best option for bathroom installations. A custom COOL-Pack equipped fireplace would be even better as these fireplaces can have glass temperatures as low as 115˚F (46˚C).
Electricity
Humidity is never a friend to electronics, or any other part of a fireplace for that matter. Fit the bathroom with an adequate extractor fan to keep humidity at bay.
Venting
ANSI Z21.50/CSA 2.22 standards state that any fireplace installed in a bathroom, sitting room, or bedroom must be a direct vent unit.
Is it worth it?
While a fireplace situated in a common room may be more useful, a bathroom fireplace is a must-have in many high-end luxury house remodels and new builds. A fireplace can turn an ordinary bathroom into a sumptuous home spa.
Think of it like your car’s heated seats on a cold winter morning – while you might not use them every day… they sure are nice when you need them!
BF52 at Relâche-Spa, Gaylord Resort, Aurora Colorado (custom commercial)
Double Down
While one might dismiss the idea of installing a fireplace in a room that people generally spend the least amount of time in, a see through fireplace can double the usage by making the fireplace viewable from a bedroom or common room.
Granted, you have to consider that this essentially creates a window from the bathroom to the connected room, so hopefully you are comfortable with your significant other or houseguests!
HL38PFC (shown without screens)
Montigo works closely with architects and designers to engineer, handcraft and install awe-inspiring, bespoke fireplaces for one-of-a-kind spaces. We collaborate with you to create a sense of space with our fireplaces.
For more information on working with Montigo’s Custom Commercial team to design the perfect fireplace for your project, visit the Professionals Resource Center.
