Ventilation and Fireplace Design

Ventilation and Fireplace Design: What Builders Need to Know

When it comes to installing high-performance wood fireplaces, ventilation is just as important as heat output and aesthetics. For builders, understanding how ventilation impacts fireplace efficiency, safety, and compliance is essential for delivering a quality result.

Here’s what you need to know when integrating a fireplace into your next residential project.

Combustion Air and Room Sealing

Modern homes are built tighter than ever, with energy-efficient construction minimising air leaks and draughts. While this is great for insulation, it can cause issues for wood-burning fireplaces if adequate combustion air isn’t provided.

Without proper airflow:

• The fireplace may struggle to draw correctly
• Smoke spillage or downdraught can occur
• The fire may burn less efficiently

Builder Tip: For tightly sealed homes, consider specifying models with external air intake options or allowing for a dedicated vent to feed combustion air directly from outside.

Seguin Super 9 – Private Boxing Club Project

Ventilation Requirements and Compliance

Australian Standards (AS/NZS 2918) dictate certain ventilation requirements for wood heaters. These can include:

• Minimum room volume based on the size of the fireplace
• Permanent ventilation openings in some cases
• Separation from mechanical ventilation systems like kitchen exhausts

Ignoring these details can result in compliance failures or poor performance.

Builder Tip: Always review the fireplace’s installation manual and check whether the project falls under flame zone regulations or other regional requirements.

JC Bordelet Zelia

Flueing and Room Pressure

A properly installed flue is critical to fireplace performance, but it’s also part of the ventilation equation. Poor flue design or negative pressure in the room can cause smoke spillage or draw reversal.

To avoid issues:

• Use a straight vertical flue wherever possible
• Avoid tight offsets or excessive bends
• Don’t place the fireplace in pressure-affected zones (e.g. close to exhaust fans)

Builder Tip: If the room includes strong mechanical ventilation or range hoods, you may need to install a make-up air system or discuss alternatives with your fireplace supplier.

JC Bordelet Eva

Product Selection Matters

Some fireplaces are more adaptable to modern ventilation demands than others. At Sculpt Fireplace Collection, units from Seguin, Axis, and JC Bordelet include features like:

• External air kits
• High-efficiency combustion
• Advanced flueing configurations

Choosing the right fireplace upfront can eliminate future problems and reduce installation headaches.

Axis H1600 SS – Luskintyre Project

Partner with Experts

Working with trusted suppliers and experienced installers is key. Sculpt Fireplace Collection provides technical documents, builder support, and detailed installation guidelines for all models in our range — helping builders deliver outstanding results every time.

To find out more or connect with your local distributor, visit Sculpt Stockist page