Instructions for Creating a Wood-Burning Stove

Home Improvement

A modern condo with a wood stove burning.
©iStockphoto/Dave Raboin

By using a few tools, some miscellaneous items, and a steel barrel, it is possible to build a DIY wood-burning stove inexpensively. Here are the steps:

1. Remove the top (plug end) of a 55-gallon (208.2-liter) steel barrel. This disc will become the stove’s cooking surface.
2. Clean the barrel out.
3. Place a stovepipe on top of the barrel, around an inch (2.5 centimeters) from the seam. Trace around the pipe forming a circle. Draw another circle inside the first circle, ¾ inch (1.9 centimeters) smaller.
4. Drill a pilot hole in the smaller circle. Use a jigsaw to fit the hole.
5. Cut out the smaller circle. Cut ½-inch (1.3-centimeter) wide lines from the center to the outer circle. Bend the tabs up using pliers. Put the stovepipe over the tabs. Use two L braces to bolt it on.
6. Cut a 12-by-8-inch (30.5-by-20-centimeter) rectangle above the top crimped ring of the barrel, opposite the seam. This will be the firebox of the stove. Cut out a 14-by-10-inch (35.5-by-25.5-centimeter) piece below the bottom crimped ring. This larger hole will remain open. Save the larger piece of metal for the firebox door and the smaller piece for the draft.
7. Attach the firebox door with an old and worn door hinge (to allow for thermal expansion).
8. Form a door latch out of two L braces.
9. Use at least six L braces to bolt around the barrel below the top crimp.
10. Bolt the firebox floor in place. Fill the edges’ crack with aluminum foil.
11. Use a leftover metal piece to cut a 2.5-by-9-inch (6.5-by-23 centimeter) piece for an air draft. Mark ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) columns all the way across the draft. Hold this up to the door. Drill three air holes in every other column, going through the draft and the door. Attach six carriage bolts so that the draft can slide back and forth. Attach a knob. Close the draft by sliding it so the ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) spaces cover the holes in the door [source: Countryside].
12. Set a test fire to burn all the paint off and show you any flaws that need correcting. Perform this procedure outdoors. Wear welding gloves to avoid getting burned [source: Backwoods Home Magazine].
13. Paint the stove with stove spray paint, if desired.

Make sure to put your stove on a fireproof surface (e.g., concrete or brick) and keep it a safe distance from the walls.

FAQ

1. What materials do I need to build a wood-burning stove?

To build a wood-burning stove, you will need fire bricks, a stove pipe, a baffle, a door, a damper, a heat exchanger, and a welding machine. You can also use a metal sheet as a base.

2. How do I design a wood-burning stove?

You can design a wood-burning stove by considering the size of the room where you will install it, the amount of wood you will use, and the type of wood you will burn. You can also add features such as a cooking surface or a water heater.

3. What is the best location to install a wood-burning stove?

The best location to install a wood-burning stove is in the center of the room, away from any combustible materials such as curtains or carpets. You should also make sure there is enough space around the stove for air circulation and easy access for cleaning.

4. How do I install the stove pipe?

To install the stove pipe, you will need to cut a hole in the wall or ceiling, attach the stove pipe to the stove, and secure it to the wall or ceiling. You should also make sure the stove pipe is at least 18 inches away from any combustible materials.

5. How do I light a wood-burning stove?

To light a wood-burning stove, you will need to open the damper, crumple some newspaper, and place it in the stove. Then, stack some kindling on top of the newspaper and light it with a match or lighter. Once the kindling is burning, add larger pieces of wood.

6. How do I clean a wood-burning stove?

To clean a wood-burning stove, you should wait until it has cooled down, remove the ashes with a shovel, and sweep the inside with a brush. You should also clean the stove pipe and the chimney at least once a year to prevent creosote buildup.

7. How do I maintain a wood-burning stove?

To maintain a wood-burning stove, you should check the gaskets and seals regularly, replace them if necessary, and clean the air vents to ensure proper airflow. You should also inspect the stove and chimney for any cracks or damage.

8. How do I troubleshoot a wood-burning stove?

If your wood-burning stove is not working properly, you should check the chimney for any blockages, make sure the damper is open, and check the airflow. You should also check the stove for any damage or wear and tear.

9. What safety precautions should I take when using a wood-burning stove?

You should never leave a wood-burning stove unattended, and you should keep children and pets away from it. You should also use a fire screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping, and make sure the stove pipe and chimney are clean to prevent fires.