Wood fireplace mantels by Design The Space (sometimes referred to as fireplace mantel surrounds) are considered a combustible material and, therefore, fire hazard clearances need to be maintained since your safety needs to be a primary concern. It is your reponsibility to check with local building code officials and to insure your wood mantel installation meets any local building codes or ordinances. Local codes take precedence over any national code and in the absence of local codes, we suggest your installation clearances meet or exceed the National/Standard Building Codes or the National Fire Code.