What is the first step in planning for a construction project involving a fireplace?

The first step in planning for a construction project involving a fireplace is identifying combustibles in the area. This step is crucial because understanding the location of combustibles is vital for safety and code compliance. Combustibles include materials like wood, insulation, and other flammable substances that could be nearby when installing a fireplace. Knowing their proximity helps to determine how the fireplace should be constructed and installed to prevent fire hazards.

After identifying combustibles, other considerations—such as the fireplace style, local regulations and codes, and the fireplace's location—can be developed. However, prioritizing the awareness of combustibles is essential to ensure that any further planning is built on a safe foundation. Installing a fireplace without first assessing combustibles might lead to dangerous situations where the risk of fire could increase due to proximity to flammable materials.