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; what fireplaces can I use? what are the restrictions? and most importantly, is this a worthwhile installation?
We will address those queries here to try and clear up any grey area on this topic, as well as show off a few eye-catching bathroom fireplace installs.
What the heck is a “bathroom approved” fireplace?
Currently under gas installation code B149, fireplaces installed in a bedroom or bathroom must be designated by the manufacturer as such OR be a direct vent type of fireplace. In other words open gas burning fireplaces are not allowed to be installed within a bedroom sitting area or bathroom / master bath situation.
Further, see through fireplaces that are installed as a divider between a bedroom and bathroom should be fitted with shockproof glass on the bathroom side when adjacent to a tub. Ceramic glass would be a necessary feature for this type of installation.
Safety Considerations
Glass: Splish splash, let’s talk about glass. A fireplace with high thermal shock rating glass is recommended due to to the possibility of water contact.
Typically this means ceramic glass is the best option for bathroom installations, though a custom COOL-Pack equipped fireplace would be even better as these can have glass temperatures as low as 115˚F (46˚C).
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.
Is it worth it?
