Installing a wood stove chimney outside of your house can be a viable solution when an indoor chimney isn’t possible or desired. In this guide, we’ll provide clear and concise technical details on how to properly set up a wood stove chimney outside your home.
Why Install a Wood Stove Chimney Outside?
Space Constraints: Limited space or room layout may not allow for an indoor chimney installation.
Aesthetics: Some homeowners prefer not to have a visible chimney inside their living spaces, which can be a valid reason for an outdoor installation.
Renovations: If you’re renovating an existing home, adding an outdoor chimney may be a more practical choice.
The Components You’ll Need
Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary components:
Chimney Pipe: Select high-quality, insulated stainless steel chimney pipe suitable for outdoor use. The size and type should match the stove manufacturer’s recommendations.
Chimney Cap: A weatherproof cap to prevent rain, debris, and animals from entering the chimney.
Supports: Wall brackets or roof supports, depending on your installation type.
High-Temperature Sealant: To seal joints and connections.
Roof Flashing (If Applicable): To prevent water leaks when the chimney passes through the roof.
Tools: Common hand tools, including a level, measuring tape, and screwdrivers.
The Installation Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to installing a wood stove chimney outside your house:
1. Determine the Installation Type
Decide whether you want the chimney to exit through the wall or the roof.
Through the Wall Installation: Typically used for single-story homes, where the chimney pipe exits horizontally through an exterior wall.
Through the Roof Installation: Common for multi-story homes, where the chimney pipe goes vertically through the roof.
2. Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines
Always consult the stove manufacturer’s guidelines for specific requirements regarding chimney size, type, and clearances. Ensure all components are compatible with your wood stove.
3. Roof or Wall Penetration
Through the Wall Installation:
Choose an appropriate location on the exterior wall where the chimney will exit. Ensure it lines up with the interior chimney pipe.
Create a hole through the wall. Install a wall thimble to safely pass the chimney pipe through the wall.
Connect the chimney pipe to the wall thimble securely.
Through the Roof Installation:
Locate the ideal position on the roof for the chimney penetration.
Cut a hole through the roof using a hole saw. Install a flashing kit to prevent leaks around the chimney.
Insert the chimney pipe through the roof hole and secure it to the roof supports.
4. Assemble the Chimney Pipe Sections
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to connect the chimney pipe sections, typically with a twist-lock or snap-together design.
Ensure all joints are secure and sealed with high-temperature sealant.
Assemble the sections from the stove’s outlet to the chimney’s endpoint (roof or wall).
5. Install Support Brackets
Place support brackets at recommended intervals for stability, securing them to the wall or roof using appropriate hardware.
6. Install the Chimney Cap
Attach a chimney cap to the endpoint of the chimney pipe, ensuring it covers the opening securely.
The cap’s purpose is to keep out rain, debris, and animals.
7. Final Inspection
Double-check that all connections are secure and joints are properly sealed.
Verify that clearances to combustible materials adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Conclusion
Installing a wood stove chimney outside of your house is a practical solution for those facing space limitations or aesthetic preferences. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines and these clear, technical steps will help you create a safe and efficient chimney system for your wood stove. Remember that regular maintenance and inspections are key to ensuring continued safe and efficient operation.