RE86-13 removed that portion of the table.
Proponents reason statement includes "In 2012 Table R402.4.1.1 Fireplace criteria states an air barrier shall be installed on fireplace walls. Fireplaces shall have gasketed doors. In Section R402.4.2 it states new wood-burning fireplaces shall have tight-fitting flue dampers or doors, and outdoor combustion air. We interpret this to mean traditional, field-fabricated, “masonry fireplaces” in accordance with 2009 IRC Section R1001, and constructed of concrete or solid clay-masonry units; NOT “factory-built,” UL 127 fireplaces in accordance with IRC Section R1004. Because of requirements in the IECC that require all fireplaces to be provided with gasketed doors, a great deal of controversy has resulted. Most factory-built fireplaces are not tested for use with sealed glass doors and installing such doors on fireplaces that are not tested for these doors could cause overheating of the fireplace resulting in a fire hazard. Without testing, the effect of the doors will be an unknown. In this regard, the intent of Section R402.4.2 is to mitigate air leakage during periods of non-use, but not where the conditions of fireplace installation are in violation of the UL 127 listing. This will address chase seal details that are needed and gives clarification to address framed wall construction.
Please note that deleting the air barrier requirement for fireplace walls has not (sic) net effect as there are at least 2 other locations in the table where the air barrier requirement for walls is restated and such would include fireplace walls."
