Has anyone installed a wood burning stove?

Question

Did you experience any difficulty? I will be lining my chimney with 316 grade flexible flue pipe and then insulating it - would you recommend pelletised vermiculite or fibreglass for ease/cost? Did you have a register plate made or did you make one yourself? Any other comments?

Answer 1

Always us stainless steel pipes to for chimney. They are more durable and avoid other problems such as chimney fire and corrosion. If you use other materials, you may have to replace them every few years, and become more costly in the long run. Insulating the pipes make no sense, save the step.

Answer 2

I've installed and used wood stoves most of my life, and no, installation is pretty straight forward.  Vermiculite insulation can settle over time but is much easier to place so the choice is really yours.  You should be able to get a register plate from the same folks who sold you the liner for not much cost and much less fuss than making your own.  One thing I learned the hard way:  Invest in a quality floor/hearth pad that is big enough to catch any sparks and embers that try to jump out everytime the door is opened.  Wood is one of the most economical but not neccesarily one of the cleanest types of heat you can use.