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 needs to be located within a smoke control zone and have the flue pipe adequately shielded.
You should also fit non-combustible surfaces to the walls behind and adjacent to the stove for fire safety reasons.
Size
Wood burning stoves for sheds can be great additions to. They not only provide efficient heating, but also add a rustic touch to the area, which creates warmth and ambiance. When you are choosing a 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 log cabin, shed or any other outdoor space, the size is a crucial aspect to consider. While it may be tempting to purchase larger stoves than what the space is required for, this can often lead to a lack of performance or even overheating. To avoid this, we suggest using our KW Calculator to find the required output for your home and then adding a couple of additional KW to ensure.
There are numerous small log burners that are ideal for log cabins and sheds. Charnwood Country 4 is a excellent model. It features a stunning design inspired by the countryside that can be a perfect fit for any log cabin or shed. It is also equipped with a heat output of up to 4800 watts. The model is Ecodesign capable, which means that it burns very efficiently and causes the least amount of air pollution. It also comes with a huge viewing area as well as a multi-fuel grate so it can burn wood or smokeless fuel.
Another great option is an alternative to the Saltfire Peanut stove range, that is available in a range of colors and has an impressive heat output of up to 4.7kW. This model requires more space from combustibles, which is around 550mm on the sides as well as back - but this can be reduced to 100mm by shielding. It also has a large viewing area which makes it an ideal option for any log cabin or shed.
Based on wood burning stoves on sale and style of your shed you may have to install non-combustible material around the flue pipe and stove to ensure that it is in compliance with local safety regulations. This is particularly crucial in the case of a shed constructed of any type of timber, and must be kept at least 200mm from the stove to prevent fires. If your shed is constructed from any other material then you should speak with an expert installation contractor to ensure that the proper insulating measures are in place.
Installation
A shed wood stove is a great choice to keep your garden warm and cozy throughout the winter months. If you do decide to add one to your shed, you need to make sure that it is installed properly. This will shield your shed from fire damage and make sure that the stove meets the building regulations and safety standards. In addition, to ensure that the space surrounding the stove is free of combustible materials It is essential to ensure that the shed has adequate ventilation. The shed can be dangerous if it doesn't have sufficient ventilation. This is due to the fact that carbon monoxide can build up.
Installing a wood burner for your shed starts with measuring the area you'd like to place it. Consider the size of the wood stove as well as any other equipment that might be required. Then, consult the instructions of the manufacturer on the safe distance from combustible materials. Also, you must take into account the insulation levels of the shed because they affect the amount of heat generated by the stove.
Once you've measured the space, mark out the areas you'll need to create the opening in the shed wall. Use the plumb line to get the correct positions and ensure that you leave a sufficient clearance between the back of the stove and the wall, as well as between the sides of the shed and the chimney stack. You'll also need to install a heat shield that protects the walls of the shed from the heat produced by the stove. It is included in the kit and is simply aligned with the hearth plate.
You will also need to make sure that the shed has an uncombustible hearth that is usually made of slate or granite. The hearth should be minimum of 12mm thick and 225mm wide in the front, 150mm wide on the sides and back. The flue pipe should be shielded, and the safe distance from surfaces that are combustible must not exceed 200mm.
After you have installed the stove and hearth, you need to wait at least 24 hrs before lighting it up for the first time. This is to allow the mortar and sealants that you use to fully cure.
Ventilation
A wood stove requires oxygen in order 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, preventing carbon dioxide build-up and promoting air circulation. A vent should be the same size as the chimney/flue and be placed as close as possible to the stove.
There are a number of rules that you have to be aware of, especially in regards to ventilation, when installing a wood burning stove in the shed. If you don't adhere to these regulations, you could end up being penalized. To avoid this, employ an HETAS-registered installationist to complete your installation and issue a certificate of conformance.
It is also essential to adhere to the Building Regulation Approved Document PartJ which governs the safe installation of flues as well as chimneys. This includes the distance that the flue pipe must be away from combustible surfaces such as ceilings and walls. The stove and flue pipe must also be protected against fire damage with either heat shielding or an insulative board.
It is recommended to install an insulated board behind the hearth of the shed, and also in the front of the outlet for the flue. This will prevent flue gases from getting drawn into un-insulated walls, potentially causing fire damage.

You can also safeguard your home from dampness by positioning it away from potential sources of water. This includes leaky windows or doors, as well as any locations where rainwater may spill onto the stove and chimney pipe.
A dehumidifier can also reduce the amount of moisture in the air, which can create an atmosphere that is more pleasant. It also helps to prevent the growth of fungus and mould on the exterior of your shed. This can affect the performance and cause damage to the stove.
The type of fuel you burn in your log stove can affect the performance of your log burner. Do not burn treated wood off-cuts, 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. Avoid burning rubbish such as cardboard or tyres. They're bad for the environment and could clog 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 making sure that your shed meets the requirements for installing log stoves, as well as ensuring that your chimney and flue system is in good functioning order. It's also a good idea to make sure you have the correct fire insurance.
The first thing to think about when deciding on a shed for a wood stove is its construction materials. Certain sheds might not be suitable for the installation of log burners due a fire safety concerns. It's also worth noting that the use of timber as a building material may be prohibited for this type of use by the planning regulations, so make sure to consult with your local authority before you begin work.
The next step is to ensure that your shed is equipped with adequate ventilation. Without it combustion, it won't be as efficient and may pose a health risk due to carbon monoxide build-up. Lack of ventilation could also lead to condensation and damp problems in the shed.
Ensure that the shed isn't placed too close to a stairwell, because this can cause heated air to rise and lose heat as it rises. Likewise, your shed should not be placed too far from a window, as this could cause drafts that can cause stoves to perform functions like the open window detection system.
It is also essential to examine the roof of the shed for watertightness, and to make sure that the flue pipe is sealed. Ideally, you should employ an expert roofer to carry out the work so that it is completed to a high standard and is in accordance with fire and building regulations. Keep a class A extinguisher inside the shed in case there is a fire or smoke emergency. It is recommended to examine your shed at least once a year for signs of wear and damage, and repair them. It is also recommended to have the flue and chimney cleaned regularly to prevent the accumulation of creosote.