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Flue pipe installation rules:

Flue Pipe Installation is often the weak link in a wood burning system. Make sure yours meets all the applicable code and safety rules.

(a flue pipe may also be called smoke pipe, chimney connector, etc.)

 

CSA B365 Rules for Installation

These rules are based on the CSA installation code used in Canada. For the exact rules in your area check with a local building inspector, wood heat retailer or chimney sweep.

  1. Maximum overall length of straight pipe: 3 m (10 ft.)Multi story chimney
  2. The assembly should be as short and direct as possible between the stove and chimney. The use of two 45 degree elbows is often preferable to a single 90 degree elbow because less turbulence is created in the exhaust flow and they result in less horizontal run.
  3. Maximum number of 90-degree elbows: 2. Maximum unsupported horizontal length: 1 m (3 feet).
  4. Galvanized flue pipes must not be used because the coatings vaporize at high temperatures and release dangerous gases. Use black painted flue pipes.
  5. 6-, 7-, and 8-inch diameter flue pipes must be at least 24 gauge in thickness.
  6. Flue pipe joints should overlap 30 mm (1 1/4 in.)
  7. Each joint in the assembly must be fastened with at least three screws.
  8. The assembly must have allowance for expansion: elbows in assemblies allow for expansion; straight assemblies should include an inspection wrap with one end unfastened, or a telescopic section.
  9. Minimum upward slope towards the chimney: 20 mm/m (1/4 in/ft.).
  10. One end of the assembly must be securely fastened to the flue collar with 3 sheet metal screws and the other end securely fastened to the chimney.
  11. There must be provision for cleaning of the pipes, either through a clean out or by removal of the pipe assembly. Removal of the assembly should not require that the stove be moved.
  12. The crimped ends (male) of the sections must be oriented towards the appliance so that falling dust and condensation stay inside the pipe.
  13. A flue pipe must never pass through a combustible floor or ceiling or through an attic, roof space, closet or concealed space.
  14. Minimum clearance from combustible material: 450 mm (18 in.). The minimum clearance may be reduced by 50 percent to 225 mm (9 in.) if suitable shielding is installed either on the pipe or on the combustible surface.
  15. Call the Barrie WETT Inspector for more information concerning installation of Wood Burning Appliances.

Recommended Flue Pipe Installation

The ideal flue pipe assembly is one that rises straight up from the appliance flue collar and directly into the chimney with no elbows. The system at the left is single wall pipe with an inspection wrap (pipe coupler) to allow it to be assembled and disassembled without moving the stove.

A straight flue pipe assembly offers the least restriction to gas flow and results in stronger draft. Straight assemblies also need less maintenance because there are no corners for creosote deposits to accumulate.

A perfectly straight flue pipe assembly is another good reason to install chimneys up through the warm space of the house, instead of out and up and outside wall

Double Walled Pipe

A sealed double-wall pipe is a good choice to maximize draft and minimize creosote deposits. Use sealed double-wall pipes if the assembly must be long or if the appliance is expected to produce low flue gas temperatures. The system above right uses a sealed double wall telescopic length between the stove and chimney.

A vented double-wall pipe allows cooling air to pass between the inner and outer layers. Where the flue pipe assembly is short and straight, a vented double-wall pipe can be acceptable. However, vented pipe is not a good choice for longer flue pipe assemblies or for appliances such as central heating appliances that tend to produce low flue gas temperatures.

Certified double-wall flue pipe systems are also available. These systems are tested to determine the minimum clearance at which they can be installed. The clearance information is found on the labels attached to the pipe and in the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The rules for their installation may differ from the rules for single-wall flue pipes.

The minimum installation clearances for certified double-wall flue pipes are much less than those for single-wall pipes. Also, the maximum length of a double-wall flue pipe assembly may be greater than is permitted for a single-wall pipe.

There are two general types of double-wall flue pipes: sealed and vented. A sealed double-wall flue pipe is effective at retaining the heat in the flue gases because the air space between the inner liner and outer shell acts as an insulator.

Read Wood Burning Installation Guide

What is included in a WETT Inspection?

A WETT certified inspection is an inspection that must be conducted by an inspector who is WETT certified. A general home inspector must take a course to become WETT certified. The course typically consists of 4 to 5 days of training as well as 80 weeks of field experience before they receive certification.

View some typical deficiencies found during WETT Certified Inspections in Simcoe County.

While a typical home inspection will provide a visual inspection of the fireplace, chimney and hearth, a WETT Certified inspection  includes an inspection of all the elements of any wood burning technologies in the home to make sure that they are installed correctly and are installed with compliance to CSA Standards, building codes and fire code regulations. It should also include a visit to the roof to examine the chimney for any potential structural or ventilation issues.

The inspection might include an examination of a wood stove, flue pipe, chimney, and wood-burning fireplace. An inspector should look at the positioning of the system, and its distance in relation to any combustible materials. If there is a problem with the function of the technology in your home, it is important that the technician you employ is also a licensed WETT technician.  View Pictures of WETT Inspection Defect Photos

Areas Inspected

The Bottom Line

WETT Certified inspections are more than just something to offer you peace of mind, if wood-burning appliances are a part of your home’s features, it is of paramount importance that these appliances are both installed properly and inspected for your safety.

The Barrie WETT Inspection Service has been inspecting Wood Burning Appliances for over 20 years.

Visit Wood Stove Installation for more information on safely installing Wood Burning Appliances.

Professional Home Inspection Services by Wasaga Beach Home Inspector

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Professional Home Inspector Services by Orillia Home Inspector

Call Roger at 705-795-8255

Email Roger at roger@napoleon.cc

Contact Information

Roger Frost
Certified Building Code Official
Certified Master Inspector

Phone: 705.795.8255
Email Roger

barrie home inspector

 

Certifications

Barrie Certified Master InspectorBarrie WETT Certified InspectionsNorth American Certified Home Inspectors