{"id":2915,"date":"2018-02-19T10:34:53","date_gmt":"2018-02-19T10:34:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.realflame.co.uk\/blog\/?p=2915"},"modified":"2020-12-14T10:09:26","modified_gmt":"2020-12-14T10:09:26","slug":"the-ultimate-guide-to-wood-burning-stoves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.realflame.co.uk\/blog\/the-ultimate-guide-to-wood-burning-stoves\/","title":{"rendered":"The Ultimate Guide to Wood Burning Stoves"},"content":{"rendered":"

A quintessentially English fire \u2013 the wood burning stove<\/a> \u2013 is a fire that radiates warmth and cosiness, creating a truly homely ambience.<\/p>\n

Their real sense of character makes them the perfect choice for a range of aesthetics, and if you are thinking of becoming the new proud owner of a wood burning stove you\u2019re probably interested in knowing a few essential tips.<\/p>\n

From how to light your wood burning stove perfectly, to knowing what type of wood to buy for your fire, Real Flame<\/a>\u2019s ultimate guide to wood burning stoves below aims to answer all your queries.<\/p>\n

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\"The<\/p>\n

What is a wood burning stove?<\/strong><\/p>\n

Let\u2019s start with the basics, a wood burning stove is how would you expect; a fireplace that generates heat and light through burning wood fuel and wood derived biomass fuel (such as sawdust bricks).<\/p>\n

Can any property have one?<\/strong><\/p>\n

A wood burning stove does need a way to vent the powerful heat, smoke, and gas it produces, meaning that a chimney is required. There are no specific rules about installing one in certain types of properties but it may be worth checking with your local authority before fitting a flue.<\/p>\n

Do I need planning permission to install a wood burning stove?<\/strong><\/p>\n

You do not need planning permission to install a solid fuel heating appliance, including a wood burning stove, as long as your property isn\u2019t a listed building or place (LBP), and if you are not in need of introducing a new external flue and\/or chimney.<\/p>\n

So, what if I don\u2019t have a chimney?<\/strong><\/p>\n

You will need to have a chimney for a traditional wood burning stove. However, planning permission is not required provided that the height of the chimney is not more than 1 metre above the highest tip of the roof. There are also some restrictions if you live within a conservation area.<\/a><\/p>\n

Don\u2019t worry if you don\u2019t have a chimney in your property, as the team here at Real Flame can install a Metal Twin Wall Chimney system as an alternative. This alternative is growing in popularity as it saves the hassle of an otherwise complicated chimney installation process.<\/p>\n

Who can install a wood burning stove? <\/strong><\/p>\n

To install a wood burning stove into any property, it either needs to be completed by a HETAS registered engineer<\/a> or a competent engineer which will have to be signed off by the local council. Do not try to attempt installing yourself, as the process needs to be certified and done properly.<\/p>\n

How do I light a wood burning stove?<\/strong><\/p>\n

There are six key stages to lighting your wood burning fire safely and efficiently:<\/p>\n

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  1. Prepare the stove \u2013 make sure the fire has had a previous air supply. On many models there is an indicator to inform you.<\/li>\n
  2. Create a fire bed \u2013 you will need to place firelighters or paper and dry kindling wood on the fire bed. A successful fire will require plenty of kindling to aid a fiery performance.<\/li>\n
  3. Lighting \u2013 wait for the kindling to catch fire and begin to burn. Make sure you have created a log guard \u2013 this keeps all the burning fuel inside and away from the glass.<\/li>\n
  4. Leave the door slightly open \u2013 this helps the flue pull and assists in lighting the fire. It also avoids condensation build up on the front glass.<\/li>\n
  5. Larger pieces \u2013 once your kindling is burning well, add larger pieces of split wood. Do not use full logs at this stage; build it up gradually, and make sure to not smother the fire.<\/li>\n
  6. The door \u2013 you can now shut the door. You may also begin to add larger pieces of wood when necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    What do I need to light it? <\/strong><\/p>\n

    A wood burning stove will have a flatbed for fuel, but please note that, unlike a multi-fuel stove, you can\u2019t use coal.  <\/strong>Having firelighters or paper is a great help in getting your fire going and kindling wood is a must-have.<\/p>\n

    What kind of wood do I need?<\/strong><\/p>\n

    When it comes to what type of wood to burn, you can burn any. However, wood that has been seasoned is best for fuel. This Is because it has been cut and allowed to dry for a year.<\/p>\n

    Hawthorn wood is a great option as it gives a slow burn and a strong heat output. Horse chestnut is also a good choice for a good flame and strong heat.<\/p>\n

    If you can\u2019t get your hands on seasoned wood, such as those above, any wood is able to be burned as long as it hasn\u2019t been treated in any way.<\/p>\n

    \"Woman<\/p>\n

    How do I clean a wood burning stove?<\/strong><\/p>\n

    Maintaining and cleaning your stove regularly will extend its life and make it much easier to clean when you do. There is no exact way to clean a wood burner, however here are a few tips:<\/p>\n