> I am replacing the joists of the suspended floor (ground floor) and I
> am considering of removing the hearth under the gas fire. The gas fire
> is rather old but in good working order and is placed about 300mm
> above the floor level.
> Do I need to keep the hearth? What are the alternatives?
What sort of gas fire? Outset or inset?
It might also depend on the manufacturers instructions. I would expect that for a 'standard' 60s 70s type outset gas fire: a minimum height of
250mm from the bottom of the 'radiants' to the floor+coverings would be sufficient clearance.
For a grate burner or inset type. Then you can still remove the hearth but you would have to reinstate a new hearth on top of the floor at least 150mm wider each side than the fire place opening, at least 300mm forward into the room. At least 12mmm non-combustible surface at least
50mm above the floor (this latter to discourage carpet fitting over the hearth). HTH