Locating Wood Stove Pipe for Best Energy Efficiency
arnoldk
| Posted in General Questions on
Hi,
Looking to find out which is the best option in term of wood stove performance and house efficiency.
The builder wants to install the chimney pipe threw the exterior wall and run it straight up to the gable roof. I was always under the impression that it was best to keep the pipe in condition space as long as possible to avoid more creosote from building up and it give a better draft do to a warmer pipe.
Does anyone has knowledge or experience which option is the best for a new construction?
Thank you,
Arnold
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Replies
Arnold,
Definitely try and route it so it stays in the conditioned space for at least three reasons:
- You get the benefit of the warm air radiating from the pipe.
- The pipe stays warmer limiting the build-up of creosote deposits as the smoke cools.
- The life of your chimney will be prolonged by not being exposed to the elements.
The only reason to situate it outside is if there is no clear path on the floor above to run straight up.
Hi Malcolm,
Thank you for your response. That was my exact thought and we are able to route the everything straight up.
Any recommendation on how to avoid leaks on a metal roof down the road?
http://www.idealroofing.ca/english_canada/html/prod_wakefieldbridge.php?type=en&ct=DFGSDFHSFG25
Thank you,
Arnold
Arnold,
I pretty much only use metal snap-lock panels roofs, never shingles. With those you flash a curb much as you would for a skylight, and cap it with the metal chimney roof boot. I assume the metal shingles get flashed much as regular composite ones, using just the roof boot, but it might be worth checking the manufacturer's installation instructions to be sure. https://www.stoves-pipes.com/6FBRA-Adjustable-Metal-Roof-Flashing-8-12-to-12-12-p/6fbra.htm
I worked installing and repairing all manner of chimneys for six years. Unquestionably your feelings, reinforced by Malcolm, for keeping the pipe indoors, are correct. There are some advantages to an outside chimney for cleaning, but that's about it. I'm assuming you plan to use a double wall pipe, and the parts that come with a system, so that determines how it is handled as it goes through the roof.
There is another option for flashing a pipe that comes through a metal roof which is somewhat simpler but could void any warranty that might come with a pipe system. This is a silicone rubber boot much like the type used for a plumbing vent, but made to resist higher temperatures. Not widely available, but here is one example:
https://www.amazon.com/Dektite-Silicone-Metal-Flashing-Round/dp/B0071C0E6A
Thanks for your response Brian. I think I will have the build put it back into condition space and I may have to create a small cavity wall in the bedroom 2. That room will become a 6 inches narrower unless we bump the entire wall of the house by a foot.
Thanks,
Arnold
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