Installing a Log Burner in a Conservatory: All You Need to Know

Are you envisioning a warm and cosy space in your conservatory during the chilly months? The idea of installing a log burner might have crossed your mind. But can you really install a log burner in a conservatory?

In this article, we’ll delve into the specifics of this venture, exploring the feasibility, benefits, precautions, and much more.

Estimated reading time: 8 minutes

Can You Install a Log Burner in a Conservatory?

The short answer is: yes, you can! Installing a log burner in a conservatory is indeed possible and can bring a touch of rustic charm and warmth to your extended living space.

However, there are several factors to consider before embarking on this project.

Let’s explore them in detail:

Factors to Consider Before Installing a Log Burner

1. Structural Integrity and Ventilation

Installing a log burner involves placing a heavy appliance within the conservatory. It’s crucial to ensure that the conservatory’s structure can support this additional weight. Additionally, proper ventilation is essential to prevent the accumulation of smoke and ensure a safe indoor environment.

Our recommendation is to seek a suitable location along the primary wall of your house for the wood burner. This positioning facilitates the support of the flue against this wall, ensuring stability.

If the stove is nearby the exterior wall it will have to be braced with metal cable or bars. See below:

Additionally, it’s crucial to maintain a minimum distance of 425mm between the stove pipe and any combustible materials that might pose a fire risk.

2. Building Regulations and Permits

Before proceeding, familiarise yourself with local building regulations and obtain any necessary permits. Compliance with these regulations guarantees the safety and legality of your log burner installation.

It is recommended to use a HETAS registered installer (which we are) to install a log burner into a conservatory as unlike a standard installation more is involved. To ensure the safe and efficient operation

Need a quote for installing a log burner into a conservatory? Get in contact with us here

3. Type of Log Burner

There are various types of log burners available, including wood-burning and multi-fuel options. Choose a log burner that suits your heating preferences and conservatory layout.

A conservatory will loose more heat than a standard brick built room. Ensure that you choose a powerful log burner that is above 5kW nominal heat output that is also efficient.

For stoves exceeding 5kW, a rule of thumb is to provide 550mm² of permanent ventilation for each additional kilowatt of heat output.

Keep reading to discover the best wood burning stoves.

4. Flue Installation

A flue is the pathway for smoke to exit the room. Proper flue installation is vital to prevent smoke from accumulating indoors. You might need to install a twin wall flue system, which can be discreetly positioned on the exterior of the conservatory.

Need a quote for flue? Get in contact with our professionals here

5. Floor Protection

Log burners generate heat, which can potentially damage the conservatory’s flooring. Ensure you have adequate floor protection in place, such as a non-combustible hearth.

Recommended hearth sizes:

• 12mm thickness
• 300mm infront of the hearth
• 150mm eitherside of the hearth

Glass and stone hearths are the most popular choice when installing into a conservatory. A conservatory hearth will need to be a minimum of 12mm thick, 300mm infront of the stove with 150mm eitherside.

This is of course all dependant on the manufacturers guidelines as every log burner will require a different sized hearth!

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Best Wood Burners for a Conservatory

With extensive expertise in assisting consumers with their wood burner selection for sunrooms, conservatories, or orangeries, we present a range of the most sought-after and highly-rated log fires that are perfectly suited for conservatory environments.

We would recommend the following:

• Eco Design Ready
• Over 5kW heat output

Our collection primarily features modern log burners with heat outputs hovering around 5kW, a preferred choice for conservatory heating.

The stoves we recommend are also designed to save space, being tall or cylindrical in shape, ensuring they occupy minimal room in the space.

Not found what you’re after? Click here to shop all wood burning stoves

The Installation Process: Step by Step

Preparation

1. Clear the conservatory area and ensure proper ventilation.
2. Check for any existing structural issues and address them if necessary.
3. Consult a professional to determine the appropriate size and type of log burner for your space.

Installation

1. Position the log burner according to manufacturer instructions, keeping in mind clearances from walls and combustible materials.
2. Install the flue system, ensuring it adheres to safety standards and regulations.
3. Place the non-combustible hearth beneath the log burner to protect the flooring.

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Final Steps

1. Test the log burner and flue to ensure proper functionality.
2. Double-check for any signs of smoke leakage.
3. Enjoy your cosy conservatory with a crackling log burner!

Benefits of Installing a Log Burner in a Conservatory

• Enhanced Ambiance: A log burner adds a warm and inviting atmosphere to your conservatory, making it an ideal place to unwind.
• Cost-Effective Heating: Wood-burning log burners can provide cost-effective heating, potentially reducing your energy bills.
• Extended Living Space: Transform your conservatory into a usable living space all year round, regardless of the weather.
• Aesthetic Appeal: The rustic charm of a log burner adds a focal point to your conservatory’s interior design.

Do I need planning permission for a log burner in a conservatory?

A very common question and so we thought we would answer this here…

No, planning permission is not required in a domestic home. You must follow document j when installing as this will ensure the safety of the installation.

It is however recommended to have your stove installed by a HETAS professional (like us!) in this setting. This will ensure that you log burner has been safely installed complying to Document J, manufacturers guidelines and distance to combustibles.

The only exception is that if your located in a smoke controlled area such as a city (London, Birmingham etc.) your stove will need to be Defra approved.

Click here for all Defra approved wood burning stoves

How does a flue fit through a conservatory roof?

When a log burner is being installed into a conservatory it will need to exit through the roof via a flue system, so think carefully about the positioning of the stove.

Please read above for the best position of your stove in this environment

It is essential that a twin wall flue system is used for the installation setting and no other type of flue, otherwise it will become a safety hazard. A double walled and insulated flue system allows the heat transfer to be heavily reduced.

For the installation of a flue system through a conservatory roof we would always recommend a HETAS installer (which we are) to carry out the work.

The most popular solution – A whole roof segment to replaced for a white or black metal panel which the stove flue will fit through. This provides a neat finish and is easiest solution.

If the roof is made from glass we would recommend contacting your conservatory manufacturer to see if a plastic (perspex) panel can be supplied. Alternatively, the glass can be cut but this is difficult and may require special assistance.

A suitable roof flashing and silicone sealant is then used to complete the installation, ensuring it is kept watertight and heat transfer is safe.

FAQs

Conclusion

The allure of a log burner in your conservatory is undeniable—providing warmth, aesthetic appeal, and an extended living space.

However, before you embark on this project, ensure you’re well-informed about building regulations, safety measures, and proper installation procedures. A HETAS engineer is recommended to undertake this work.

By making well-informed decisions, you can enjoy the cosy charm of a log burner in your conservatory for years to come.

Ready to start your project? Get in contact with our team here

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