November 2025 - Magazine - Page 24
Mi n i str i es
OUT of TIME
STEP2: Find a Location for the Wood Stove
Within the room, find a suitable location for the wood stove in the home. Keep clearances
in mind. Some municipalities may allow you to reduce some clearance by adding certain
fire-retardant materials, plus extra clearance for air space. Consider the stove pipe's exit location. So, avoid locating the pipe directly below rafters, wires, or other obstructions in the
attic.
Wood Stove Clearances
Code relating to wood-burning stoves likely will differ from one municipality to another.
Sample code clearances:
◼
Side of the stove to a side or back wall: 20 inches minimum
◼
Stove pipe to any wall: 26-3/4 inches minimum
◼
Room height: 84 inches minimum
◼
Floor protector length, front: 18 inches, minimum
◼
Floor protector length, sides: 8 inches, minimum
◼
Top of chimney, above roof: 36 inches minimum
STEP 3: Obtain Permits
Obtain a building permit to install the wood stove from the local building department. A
building or fire inspector will inspect the work after completion and either approve the permit or ask for changes.
STEP 4: Install the Floor Protector Pad
Install the floor protector hearth pad so that the wood stove is centered on the pad and
complies with side clearance requirements.
STEP 5: Create a Roof Opening for the Stove Pipe
Mark the center of the stove pipe cut spot on the ceiling with a laser-level plumb bob
