How to Use PVC Tiles Around a Pellet Stove

Review the flooring or base requirements of your pellet stove, as well as your local building codes. Typically, manufacturers require that you provide a noncombustible base that extends 6 inches to the front and sides of the stove, and 1 or more inches behind it. If you want to use PVC tiles as the main floor in the area around the stove, you will need to install a hearth pad to these dimensions, or limit the tile installation so it stops at least 6 inches from the stove.

Mark the area around the stove where noncombustible flooring is required, to determine where your PVC tiles should stop, if you do not plan on moving the stove.

Install the PVC tiles according to manufacturer directions. Cover the entire area of the floor, if the stove is not already installed, or stop within 6 inches of the stove if the stove is already present. The existing flooring must be smooth and clean before you begin. You can cut some of the tiles down to fit them in around the edges of the room or against the required clearance area around the stove. Then, spread the adhesive and lay each tile down. Let the adhesive dry completely, based on manufacturer directions, before setting down a hearth pad.

Place a noncombustible hearth pad down where the stove is to be installed, if you have placed vinyl flooring there. Manufacturer requirements vary, but many pellet stoves will run safely on top of 20 gauge sheet metal or a cast iron floor protector mat. Hearth pads are commonly constructed of cement, tile or other noncombustible materials and can be selected to fit the color and style of your vinyl flooring.