Installing a Wood Burning Stove For a Shed
A wood-burning stove for your shed is a perfect option for those looking to add a little homely charm to their garden retreat. Be aware that any DEFRA-exempt shed log burner needs to be placed within a smoke control area and have the flue pipe adequately shielded.
To ensure safety from fire, you will also need to put non-combustible flooring on the walls that are adjacent to and behind the stove.
Size
Wood burning stoves for sheds are great additions to. They not only provide efficient heating, but they also add a rustic touch to the space, creating warmth and ambience. Before you choose the right wood burning stove for your shed or any other off grid dwelling such as a shepherd's hut, yurt or container home, it is crucial to think about safety and regulations.
When purchasing a log stove for a shed, log cabin or other outdoor space, the size is an important factor to consider. It is tempting to buy a larger stove that is needed for the space, but this could cause poor performance and even overheating. To avoid this, we recommend using our KW calculator to find out the KW required for your kitchen and adding a few extra KW for safety.
Luckily, there are plenty of small log burners available that are perfect for sheds and log cabins. Take the Charnwood Country 4 for example It has a beautiful country inspired design that would suit any type of shed or log cabin, while it boasts a heat output of up to 4.8kW. This model is Ecodesign-ready which means it burns efficiently and causes little air pollution. It also has a huge viewing window and a multi fuel grate, which allows you to burn both smokeless and wood fuel.
Another option is an alternative to the Saltfire Peanut stove range, that is available in a variety of colors and boasts a stunning heat output of up to 4.7kW. This model does require some extra space to combustibles than the other models on this list - 550mm to both the sides and rear - this can be reduced by 100mm if shielding is employed. It also has a large viewing area, making it an ideal choice for any shed or log cabin.
To ensure that you are in compliance with local regulations, you may be required to install non-combustible materials around the flue or stove pipe, based on the size and style of your shed. This is particularly crucial in the case of a shed constructed of wood. The wood must be kept at least a distance of 200mm from the stove in order to prevent fires. If your shed was constructed from a different material, you should consult with an experienced installer to ensure the right insulation measures are in place.
Installation
A shed wood burner is a great way to make your garden retreat cozy and comfortable during winter months. If you decide to add one to your shed, you must ensure that it's installed properly. This will shield your shed from fire damage and ensure that the stove meets safety and building regulations. In addition, to ensure that the space around the stove is clear of combustible materials It is essential to ensure that the shed has adequate ventilation. If the ventilation is not adequate the shed could be hazardous due to the build-up of carbon monoxide.
The first step to install the stove in a shed is to measure the area where you'd like to put it. Be sure to consider the dimensions of the stove and any other equipment you need. Also, make sure to follow the guidelines of the manufacturer regarding the safe distance to combustible materials. It is also important to be aware of the insulation levels in the shed, as these can impact the amount of heat your stove generates.
Once you've determined the area and marked the area the location you plan to make the opening in the wall of the shed. Use a plumb line to get the right positions, and be sure to leave a sufficient clearance between the stove's back and the wall, and between the side walls of the shed and the chimney stack. It is also necessary to install an insulation that protects the shed wall from the heat generated by the stove. This is included with the kit and simply lines up with the hearth plate.
You will also need to ensure that the shed is equipped with an uncombustible hearth that is typically constructed of either slate or granite. The hearth needs to be at least 12mm thick, and it must be at least 225mm wide in the front and 150mm on both sides as well as the rear. The flue pipe should be protected and the safe distance between surfaces that are combustible cannot exceed 200mm.
Once the hearth and stove are in place, you should wait at least 24 hours prior to lighting it for the first time. This is so that the mortar and sealants will be cured properly.
Ventilation
A wood stove needs oxygen to burn - a lack of airflow can result in a non-burning fire or even carbon monoxide poisoning. Vents will ensure that the flow of air continues around the stove when it is in use to prevent carbon monoxide build up and assisting with air circulation. Vents should be similar in size or larger than the chimney/flue, and should be placed as close to the stove as is possible.
When installing a wood-burning stove in a shed, you must adhere to certain rules, especially with regards to ventilation. You could be penalized if you do not comply. To avoid this, employ an HETAS certified installer to carry out your installation and give you a an official certificate of conformity.
The Building Regulation Approved Document Part J, which governs the installation of chimneys and flues, must also be adhered to. The distance between the flue pipe and the combustible material like ceilings or walls, is also included. The stove and flue should be protected from fire damage through either heat shielding or an insulation panel.
It is advisable to fit an insulated board on the hearth of the shed, and in the front of the outlet for the flue. This will prevent flue gases from getting trapped in walls that are not insulated which could cause fire damage.
You can also safeguard your shed from dampness by positioning it away from potential sources of water. This includes any windows or doors, as well as any areas where rainwater might be able to drip onto the stove or chimney pipe.
A dehumidifier can also help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air and create a pleasant atmosphere. It can also help stop fungus and mould from forming on the surfaces within your shed, which could hinder the performance of your stove and lead to damage.
The type of fuel you burn in your log burner can also affect its performance. Avoid burning treated wood off-cuts or particle boards. These materials can produce harmful chemicals that can damage the stove or flue system and create excessive emissions. They can also cause dangerously high temperatures and high temperatures in flue gas. Also, never burn rubbish like tyres, cardboard or paper as they are harmful for the environment and can cause a blockage in your stove.
Safety
Although it is possible to install a wood burning stove in a shed, it's essential to follow the proper installation guidelines and follow the proper safety precautions. This includes ensuring that your shed meets all the requirements to install a log burner and that your chimney system is in good shape. It's also recommended to make sure that you have the right fire insurance in the correct location.
When you are looking for a shed to install a wood stove, the first thing to think about is the construction material. Certain sheds, specifically those with a corrugated metal roof, may not be suitable for log burner installations because of fire safety issues. You should also be aware that using wood as a building material for this application may be prohibited by local planning regulations.
The next step is to ensure that your shed has adequate ventilation. Without it the combustion process will not be as efficient and could pose an health risk due to carbon monoxide build-up. A lack of ventilation could cause damp issues and condensation in the shed.
Make sure that your shed is not too close to the stairwell. This will cause heated air to rise, and then lose heat. Additionally, your shed should not be situated too far from a window, as this could also cause drafts that could cause certain stoves to perform functions such as the open windows detection system.
It is also essential to examine the roof of your shed for watertightness and to make sure that the flue pipe is properly sealed. Ideally, you should hire a professional roofer to do the job to ensure it is completed to a high quality and is in compliance with building and fire regulations. It is recommended to have an extinguisher of class A in the shed to be able to respond quickly to any fire or smoke problems. It is recommended to examine your shed at least once a year for signs of wear and damage and repair them. You should also have the chimney and flue cleaned frequently to prevent creosote accumulation.