Wood Stove Installation
A wood stove is only as safe as the chimney it connects to and the clearances around it. Installation starts with the flue and the room, and the stove comes after.
Start with the flue and the room
Choosing the stove comes after you know what the chimney can support and where the stove can safely go. A stove has to connect to a flue of the right size, in good condition, and sit the required distance from anything that burns. An inspection before you buy settles both. See inspection before a new appliance.
What installation involves
| Part | What has to be right |
|---|---|
| Flue | Sound, and sized for the stove. Stoves usually need their own liner. |
| Location and clearances | The distances to walls, ceiling and furniture set by the manufacturer’s instructions |
| Hearth and floor protection | Non-combustible protection of the required size under and around the stove |
| Connector pipe | The right type, the right slope and secure joints from the stove to the flue |
| Termination | A cap and a finished top that keeps out water and animals |
The liner question
A stove produces hot, concentrated exhaust, and it needs a flue that is the right size for its outlet. An old open-fireplace flue is usually too big. A properly sized liner keeps the exhaust hot and the draft steady, and protects the masonry. See liner installation and our guide on stove and insert liners.
Codes and permits
Stove installations are covered by the manufacturer’s instructions and by local codes, and many towns require a permit and an inspection. We tell you what applies to your project before work starts, and the final decision about the stove, its model and its location is yours.
Bring the manual or the model number of the stove you are considering. It lets us compare its requirements with your chimney and your room before you buy.
What the work involves
How installation goes
- AssessWe inspect the chimney and the room.
- PlanWe agree where the stove goes and what the flue needs.
- InstallThe liner, connector and stove are installed and connected.
- FinishWe check the installation and show you how to run it.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a stove in front of my fireplace?
Often, depending on the hearth, the clearances and the flue. We assess it.
Do I need a new liner?
Usually, since stove flues need to be sized for the stove. We confirm what yours needs.
Do I need a permit?
Often. Requirements vary by town, so check with your local building department.
Which stove should I buy?
We do not tell you which brand to buy. We tell you what your chimney and room can support.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.