---
title: What Does Minimum Distance to Combustibles Mean?
description: Learn what “minimum distance to combustibles” means for wood burning stoves, with practical safety tips and examples of combustible and non-combustible materials.
---
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# What Does Minimum Distance to Combustibles Mean?
## Why Is Minimum Distance Important?
#### Wood Burning & Multi-Fuel Stove Safety Guidance
When fitting a wood burning or multi-fuel stove, it is vital to ensure the safe distance between your appliance and any surrounding materials that could catch fire. This is called the **minimum distance to combustibles**. Protecting your home and family starts with following these clearance rules.
#### What Are Combustible Materials?
**Combustibles** are items or building materials that can burn or be damaged by heat. In the home, common combustible materials around stoves include:
- **Wood and timber** (beams, paneling, flooring, window and door frames, skirting boards)
- **Plasterboard** (*all types*, including pink fire-retardant boards)
- **Soft furnishings** (curtains, blinds, carpets, rugs, cushions)
- **Upholstery** (sofa, armchair, fabric walling)
- **Furniture** (shelving, tables, units)
- **Plastics** (cable sheaths, electrical sockets, plastic covers)
- **Wallpaper and decorative finishes**
- **Books, papers, wall hangings**
> **Important:** *All plasterboard—including pink “fire retardant” board—is regarded as a combustible material.*
#### What Is the Required Minimum Distance?
**The minimum safe distance to combustibles varies from one stove model to another.** Each stove is tested by the manufacturer to specific standards, and the tested measurements are unique for every product.
- **Always consult your stove’s manual or data plate** to identify the correct minimum distance for your model.
- **These distances can change.** If exact clearance is critical (e.g., a unique fireplace project), please contact us to confirm the very latest requirement for your stove.
> *The minimum distance to combustibles is a legal and safety requirement. Never guess or use another stove’s figures!*
#### What About Non-Combustible Materials?
**Non-combustible materials** do not catch fire or release flammable vapors when heated. Examples include:
- **Brick**
- **Stone**
- **Tiles and ceramics**
- **Concrete**
- **Marble**
- **Glass**
- **Metals (steel, cast iron, etc.)**
**Unless stated otherwise in your stove manual, there is no minimum distance required from your stove to non-combustible materials.**
However, we always recommend providing **75–100mm (3–4 inches) of free space** between your stove and any non-combustible wall or surface. This gap allows for airflow to protect the steel body of the stove and prolong its lifespan.
#### Summary Checklist
- **“Minimum distance to combustibles”** is the safe gap required to any item that could catch fire.
- **Common combustibles:** wood, plastics, plasterboard (including pink fireboard), soft furnishings, and wallpaper.
- **Each stove is different.** Find your exact clearance in the stove’s official product guide.
- **Distances can change.** For total certainty, email us at **[support@moderngroupuk.com](mailto:support@moderngroupuk.com)** with your stove details.
- **Non-combustibles (brick, stone, tile, etc.):** no minimum unless your manual says otherwise, but allow 75–100mm for airflow as best practice.
#### Still Unsure? We’re Here to Help
If you’re uncertain about clearances, your materials, or how safe your planned installation is, don’t take chances.
**Get expert advice:** Contact us at [support@moderngroupuk.com](mailto:support@moderngroupuk.com)
**Your safety is our top priority. Always follow tested guidance and check if you are unsure.**
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