Installing a Wood Burning Stove For a Shed
Wood burning stoves for sheds are a fantastic option for gardeners looking to add a touch of warmth to their retreat. Be aware that any DEFRA exempt shed log burner has to be placed within a smoke control area and the flue pipe shielded.
It is also necessary to put non-combustible materials on the walls adjacent and behind the stove for fire safety reasons.
Size
A wood burning stove for a shed is a great addition to any space and not only provide efficient heating but also adding a rustic and beautiful look that adds warmth and ambiance. Before you decide on a wood burning stove for your shed, or any other off grid dwelling, such as a shepherd's hut, yurt or container home, it's crucial to think about safety and regulations.
One of the most important things to think about when buying log burners for a log cabin or shed is the size. It is tempting to buy a larger stove than is required for the space, but this can lead to poor performance and even overheating. To avoid this we recommend using our KW calculator to figure out the approximate KW output needed for your space and then adding a few more KW just to be safe.
There are a variety of small log burners that are perfect for sheds and log cabins. Charnwood Country 4 is a excellent model. It features a stunning design inspired by the countryside that would fit any shed or log cabin. It also boasts a heat production of up to 4800 watts. It is Ecodesign-ready, which means it burns efficiently and produces little air pollution. It also has a huge viewing window and a multi fuel grate, meaning you can burn smokeless and wood fuel.
The Saltfire Peanut stove is another excellent option. It is available in a variety of colours and can generate heat up to 4.7kW. This model requires a bit more distance from combustibles - around 550mm on the sides as well as back - but this can be reduced to 100mm by shielding. It has a large viewing area which makes it a great option for any log cabin or shed.
To ensure that you are in compliance with local regulations, you may need to put in non-combustible material around the flue or stove pipe depending on the size and shape of your shed. This is particularly important when your shed is constructed of any type of timber, and must be at least 200mm from the stove to avoid fires. If your shed was built from a different material, you should consult an experienced installer to ensure the proper insulation measures are in place.
Installation
A shed wood stove is a great option to keep your garden retreat warm and cozy during the winter months. If you decide to add one to your shed, ensure that it is installed correctly. This will shield your shed from fire damage and also ensure that the stove complies with the building regulations and safety standards. In addition to ensuring that the space surrounding the stove is free of combustible substances It is essential to ensure that the shed has adequate ventilation. If the full details is not adequate, the shed could become dangerous due to a build-up of carbon monoxide.
Installing a shed wood burner begins by measuring the space in which you'd like to place it. Take into consideration the size of the wood stove and any other equipment that might be required. Check the instructions of the manufacturer to determine the safe distance away from combustible material. It is also important to take into account the insulation levels of the shed, because they influence the amount of heat produced by the stove.
Once you've measured the space, mark out the location you plan to make the opening in the shed wall. Use a plumb-line to make sure you are in the correct locations. Also, leave plenty of space between the side walls and the chimney stack, as well as the back of your stove. It is also necessary to fit a heat shield that shields the wall of the shed from the heat generated by the stove. It is included in the kit, and it simply aligns with the hearth plate.
You will also have to ensure that your shed has an open hearth constructed of non-combustible material, such as slate, granite, or concrete. The hearth needs to be at least 12mm thick, and must be at least 225mm wide in the front and 150mm on both sides and at the rear. The flue pipe should be protected and the distance from combustible surfaces should not exceed 200mm.
After installing the hearth and stove It is important to wait at least 24 hrs before lighting it up for the first time. This is so that the mortar and sealants can cure properly.
Ventilation
A wood stove needs oxygen to burn. Without airflow, it could result in a non-burning flame or even carbon monoxide. Vents allow air to circulate around the stove when it is operating to prevent carbon dioxide accumulation and encouraging air circulation. Vents should be the same size as the chimney/flue, and be close to the stove.
There are several rules that you have to be aware of, especially in regards to ventilation, when you install a wood-burning stove in a shed. You could be fined in the event that you fail to comply with. To avoid this, always hire an HETAS certified installer to perform your installation and give you a the certificate of compliance.
You must also adhere to the Building Regulation Approved Document Part J which governs the safe installation of flues and chimneys. The distance between the flue pipe and combustible material like ceilings or walls are also covered. The flue pipe and stove must be secured against fire damage with either heat shielding or an insulative board.
It is recommended to put an insulated board behind and in front of the outlet for the flue. This will prevent flue gasses from being trapped in walls that are not insulated and causing fire damage.
You can also shield the shed from dampness if you place it away from any potential sources of moisture. This could include leaky windows or doors and any areas where rainwater could splash onto the stove or flue pipe.
A dehumidifier will also help to reduce the amount of moisture in the air and create a more pleasant atmosphere. It will also prevent the growth of fungus and mould on the exterior of your shed. This can impact the performance of your stove and cause damage to the stove.
The type of fuel you burn on your log burner can have an impact on its performance too. Don't burn treated off-cuts, ply wood or particle boards. These materials can release harmful chemicals that can damage the stove or flue system and cause excessive emissions. They may also produce dangerously high temperatures and high temperatures in flue gas. Never burn rubbish like cardboard or tyres. They're bad for the environment and can block your stove.
Safety
It is possible to install a log burner in a shed. However it is crucial to follow the proper guidelines for installation and ensure that you are taking all safety precautions. This includes ensuring that your shed is in compliance with the requirements for installing the stove, and that your chimney is in good working order. It's important to ensure that you have the right fire insurance.
The first thing you should consider when scoping out a shed for a wood stove is its construction materials. Some sheds, particularly ones with a corrugated roof, might not be suitable for log burner installations because of fire safety issues. It's also worth noting that the use of wood as a building material could be prohibited for this type of use by the building regulations, so be sure you check with your local authority prior to you begin your work.
The next step is to make sure that your shed has adequate ventilation. Without this the combustion process isn't as efficient and may pose an health risk due to carbon monoxide accumulation. In addition, a lack of ventilation could cause condensation, which could result in damp issues within the shed.
Make sure that your shed isn't placed too close to a stairwell, since this could cause the warm air to rise and lose heat as it rises. Also, your shed should not be situated too far from a window, as this can also lead to drafts that could cause certain stoves to perform functions like the open window detection system.
Lastly, it's essential to check the roof of your shed to ensure it's waterproof and properly sealed where the flue pipe passes through. Ideally, you should employ a professional roofer to carry out the job to ensure it is completed to a high standard and is in compliance with building and fire regulations. wood burning fires should also keep an extinguisher that is class A in the shed to respond quickly to any fire or smoke problems. It is recommended that you inspect your shed once a year for signs of wear and damage and repair them. It is also recommended to have the chimney and flue cleaned frequently to prevent the accumulation of creosote.