How to Run a Stove Pipe Through a Wall

A stove is the best alternative for heating the home if you intend to lower your utility bills. Using a stove that burns biodegradable materials such as wood is more environmentally sound and that is why it is an option for people who want to go “green." It is important, though, to install a stove pipe properly because improper installation of these pipes can be a fire hazard.

Stove pipes require less maintenance but it is always better to check every so often to see any air leaks on the pipe or if the pipe is abnormally collecting soot. Make sure that there are no combustible materials in the surrounding areas that may cause fires. Always make sure that your building permits these stoves to be built in your home.

If you are not sure about installation procedures of such stoves, consult a professional. This type of heating device is safe when used properly but can be very dangerous if used otherwise. Follow these steps carefully on how to safely run a stove pipe through your wall.

Step 1 - Find a Location

Choose a location for your stove pipe. It is best to locate it 36 inches up the wall from the stove.

Step 2 - Get the Measurements

Measure your stove pipe and get its diameter. Take that number and multiply by 3 and use that to determine the stove pipe’s clearance from the wall. For example, if the pipe’s diameter is 8 inches then the clearance should be 24 inches.

Step 3 - Make a Wall

Make a 3½ inch thick wall made of bricks against any combustible wall to which you want to pass the stove pipe. Have 12 inches of space between the combustible and brick walls.

Step 4 - Install the Stove Pipe

Install your stove pipe. Leave 9 inches of air space between the pipe and any material that is combustible. The chimney you purchased must be insulated and must have a UL rating. UL stands for Underwriter Laboratories. This is a company that makes sure that products comply with safety standards. Anything that does not comply with safety standards can be dangerous especially when dealing with matters regarding heating. Low quality products that do not comply or follow safety standards should not even be considered, as can cause home fires.

Step 5 - Connect the Pipe to the Chimney

Connect the stove pipe to the chimney using a 24 gauge steel sheet chimney connector. Take the ventilated thimble and fit the pipe into it. Add at least 6 inches of fiberglass insulation to seal off the chimney. Proper sealing is very important to ensure that heat exhaust is vented out of the home and not collecting inside the home or on the heating system. Allow at least ½ inch pitch from the connection through the wall to the wood stove. This way there is a free flow of gasses from the flue. Use sheet metal screws when connecting anything to the stove pipe.