Hearth Thickness for Appliances

12 mm

Hearths for appliances, other than specific solid fuel or gas-specific cases, must be constructed from non-combustible materials with a minimum thickness of 12mm.

Basis in regulation

Part J
Approved Document J
Read the source

How to check it on site

Check that all appliance hearths meet the minimum 12mm thickness requirement and are made of non-combustible material.

Common failure

Hearths being too thin or made from combustible materials, compromising fire safety.

Last updated 23 August 2026. This is our editorial summary of publicly available regulation, not building control approval or a warranty determination.

Related dimensions at this stage

Minimum

Hearth Provision and Floor Finishes

225 mm

A hearth may not be necessary if an appliance's flame or incandescent material is positioned at least 225mm above the floor

Minimum

Soundproofing Measures for Soil Pipes

25 mm

Sound insulation for soil pipes involves either encasing them in boxing made from a material with a minimum mass of 15kg/m², or wrapping them with at least 25mm of unfaced mineral wool, typically 10kg/m³ density

Minimum

Electrical Accessory Clearance from Water Diagrams

300 mm

Diagrams illustrating the required 300mm minimum horizontal clearance for electrical accessories from water sources, such as sinks and wash basins, are commonly used in guidance documents

exact

Conditions for Pipe Freezing Calculations

6 °C

Calculations for pipe insulation to prevent freezing are based on specific assumed conditions, typically including an external air temperature of -6°C and an internal water temperature of +7°C

Minimum

Water seal depth at appliance traps

75 mm for baths, basins, sinks and showers on a branch; 50 mm for a WC trap

Appliance trap on a branch discharge pipe

Minimum

Stair Handrail Height and Clearance

600 mm

A handrail is mandatory for flights of stairs where the rise exceeds 600mm