How to Install a Wood Burning Stove: A Comprehensive Guide

Installing a wood-burning stove can be a daunting task. But with this comprehensive guide, you’ll have all the information you need to install your stove like a pro! So whether you’re an experienced DIY-er or just starting out, read on for all the information you need to make your wood stove installation experience easy and safe. We will cover everything from choosing a location to hiring professionals if required.

How to Install a Wood Burning Stove

Step One: Location

First, let’s take a look at some of the things you’ll need to consider before installing your stove. One of the most important factors is where you will install your stove.

You’ll want to choose a location that is preferably on the first floor, as heat rises.

The wood stove should be near good insulation.

You should also consider that the space has enough room for firewood.

Additionally, you’ll need to ensure enough clearance from the stove to any combustible material. Seasoned wood should be stored at least 18 inches away from the stove.

Step Two: The Stove

There are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind when choosing a wood-burning stove.

First, you’ll need to decide the stove’s purpose. If you plan to use it primarily for heating your home, then you’ll want an EPA-approved model.

Additionally, you’ll need to ensure that the stove is appropriate for your space. Take into consideration the size of the area you need to heat and how many BTUs the wood stove needs to produce.

Step Three: Contact Local Officials

Before you install your wood-burning stove, you’ll need to contact your local officials for permission and find out the local building codes, rules, and regulations. This is important because there are usually specific guidelines that must be followed to ensure the safety of your home and family.

You may also need to contact the insurance company to determine if your homeowner’s insurance covers wood stoves.

Step Four: Floor Protection

Once you have chosen the perfect location for your stove, it’s time to start thinking about how you will protect your floor from the embers and heat.

One way to do this is to install a thermal non-combustible floor pad underneath the stove. You’ll also want to make sure that the floor around the stove is covered with fireproof material.

Step Five: Heat Shield

To protect your combustible walls from the wood heat, you’ll need to install wall protection such as a heat shield. This can be done by attaching sheet metal to the wall or using a pre-fabricated heat shield.

Step Six: Place the Stove

Now that everything is in place, it’s time for the actual wood stove installation. This can be a difficult task, as wood stoves are generally very heavy, so you may need to enlist the help of a friend or family member.

Once the stove is in place, you’ll need to make sure that it is level and secure.

Step Seven: Install the Chimney Kit and Chimney Pipe

The next step is to install the chimney kit.

First, you’ll need to seal the interior stove pipe with a high-temperature caulk or stove cement.

Then, you’ll need to attach the chimney braces and the chimney support kit. You can do this by either screwing or bolting the braces and chimney support kit into place.

All chimneys and chimney pipes are specific to each particular wood-burning stove, so make sure to read the owner’s manual for more detailed instructions.

Overall, they need adequate capacity, proper clearance from combustible material, and the correct height.

Additional Safety Measures

Here are a few extra safety measures to consider when you install a wood stove in your home:

• Make sure there is a smoke detector
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand
• Create a family escape plan in case of fire

Hire a Professional

If you’re not comfortable with any of the steps above, then you may need to hire a professional to ensure your wood stove will be installed properly.

Some companies specialize in wood stove installation, chimney cleaning, and repairs.

FAQs

Now that we’ve gone over the basics of installing a wood-burning stove, let’s look at some frequently asked questions.

Q: How do I know what size wood-burning stove to get?

A: The size of the wood-burning stove you need will depend on the size of your space and how many BTUs you need to generate.

Q: Do I need a new wood stove, or can I buy one second-hand?

A: You can buy a new or used wood stove, but it’s important to make sure that it is EPA-approved.

Q: How often do I need to clean my chimney?

A: You should have your chimney cleaned at least once a year. A chimney fire can be very dangerous, so it’s important to make sure that your chimney is in good condition.

Q: What do you do with the ashes produced by burning wood in wood stoves?

A: The ashes can be used for fertilizer or as a natural weed killer. They can also be added to your compost pile.

Q: Where do I get wood fuel?

A: You can buy wood fuel at most hardware stores, or you can cut your own if you have access to a wooded area. Just make sure to use dry wood.

Q: What are some of the benefits of using a wood-burning stove?

A: Wood-burning stoves are a great way to heat your home because they are environmentally friendly and cost-effective. They also provide a cozy, traditional atmosphere.

Last Thoughts

Installing a wood-burning stove is a great way to heat your home. With a bit of planning and the help of a friend or family member, you can do it yourself. Just make sure to follow all of the safety guidelines and contact your local officials for permission before you get started. Then you’ll finally be ready to cozy up next to the hot fire.