How far should a pad under a wood stove extend out in front of the stove?

A pad under a wood stove is designed to protect the flooring from heat, embers, and possible spills from the stove. The extension of the pad is critical for safety and should meet certain guidelines. An extension of 16 inches in front of the stove is recommended because it provides a sufficient buffer zone that protects the underlying floor from any radiated heat and any potential fire hazards.

This distance allows for adequate space in front of the stove, where hot materials and ashes are likely to roll or fall out during loading or operation. Additionally, ensuring that the pad extends this far promotes safety for users, allowing them to use the stove without worrying about nearby combustibles igniting. The specific recommendation of 16 inches helps to comply with safety standards and best practices, making it the correct choice in this instance.