May 2, 2025

How to Fit a Wood Burner in a Conservatory

Tired of your conservatory feeling like a walk-in fridge? Fitting a wood burner is possible—and it’s the ultimate cosy upgrade! You’ll need the right log burner, smart flue planning, and pro installation. Read on for tips, costs, and what log burner to buy for year-round warmth (and smugness).

Unique Challenges of Installing a Wood Burner in a Conservatory

So, you're thinking of turning your chilly conservatory into a snug little retreat? Great choice. But unlike a traditional brick-walled room, conservatories come with their own quirks. Lots of glass, lightweight frames, and limited insulation all mean you've got to approach things a bit differently.

Before you grab your logs and lighter, here’s what you need to know.

Building Regulations and Conservatory Exemptions (Check Local Rules)

Now, while conservatories often sidestep certain building regs, that doesn't apply when it comes to installing a stove.

You’ll need to follow Part J of the UK Building Regulations, which focuses on solid fuel appliances. This covers things like proper ventilation, flue design, and safe distances from anything combustible.

If your home is listed, or you live in a conservation area, you'll likely need to check in with your local council before proceeding. Better safe than sorry, right?

A HETAS-registered installer will be your best friend here—they’re trained to handle all the red tape, so you don’t have to.

Ventilation Requirements (Often Crucial in Conservatories)

Here’s the deal: fire needs air. Without enough ventilation, your log burner won’t just struggle to stay lit—it might start causing smoke to spill back into the room.

That’s particularly tricky in conservatories, which are often sealed up like a Tupperware box.

Depending on your stove's heat output, you might need to fit an air vent near the floor or wall to feed the fire properly.

Not only does this improve the stove’s performance, but it also helps keep you safe from nasties like carbon monoxide.

Roof and Glazing Considerations for Flue Installation

Ah, the flue. Possibly the most complicated part of this whole process.

Most conservatories have polycarbonate or glass roofs—not exactly ideal for sending a hot pipe through.

That’s where a twin-wall insulated flue system comes in. It keeps gases hot as they travel upward, and it’s much safer when passing near fragile materials.

In many cases, installers will route the flue through a side wall, then up and out. If it goes through the roof, it’ll need to be customised to avoid damage and keep the rain out.

And don’t forget: your flue needs to end at least 1 metre above the roofline to meet building standards and ensure proper draw.

Hearth Requirements and Floor Load Capacity

Let’s talk about the bit your stove actually sits on.

You can’t just stick it on your conservatory floorboards and hope for the best. You’ll need a hearth made of non-combustible material—think toughened glass, concrete, or thick tiles.

It should be at least 12mm thick if your stove’s base temperature stays below 100°C. It also needs to extend 300mm in front and 150mm either side of the stove itself.

And before you fit anything heavy, double-check your floor can take the weight—especially if it’s a raised or suspended design.

Essential Steps for Conservatory Installation

Right—now that we’ve tackled the tricky bits, let’s break down the actual steps to get your stove up and running.

Planning and Permissions

Most homeowners don’t need full planning permission just to install a wood burner.

But there are caveats. If you live in a listed property or a conservation area, your local authority might have extra requirements.

It’s always worth a quick chat with your council planning office. Better that than ripping it all out because you missed a rule.

Flue System Options (Internal vs. External)

Here’s where choices come in. You’ve got two main routes for your flue:

Internal flue, which exits through the roof.
External flue, which goes out through a wall and then runs up the outside of your home.

External flues are generally simpler for conservatories and avoid issues with glass roofs.

Just remember: whichever option you go with, it must be a twin-wall insulated flue to keep it safe and efficient.

Heat Output Considerations for a Glazed Space

You might think, “Bigger stove = more heat = better!” But not in a conservatory.

These spaces are usually smaller and less insulated, meaning they heat up fast—and cool down just as quickly. A stove with a 2–4kW output is often more than enough.

As for what log burner to buy, look for Ecodesign 2022 compliant models that are DEFRA-approved, especially if you’re in a smoke control area.

Compact models with low clearance requirements are ideal for tight spots and corners.

Safety Precautions and Distance to Glass

Conservatories = lots of glass and uPVC. And these don’t play well with intense heat.

Your stove needs to be at least 400mm away from any combustible material, including plastic window frames and timber supports.

In tighter spaces, a heat shield can be installed to reduce the clearance needed safely. And whatever you do—don’t block any exits.

Safety should always be front and centre when placing a stove in a glazed room.

Professional Installation is Highly Recommended

Look—we all love a bit of DIY. But when it comes to wood burners, this is one job best left to the pros.

A HETAS-registered installer doesn’t just fit the stove—they ensure the entire system meets building regulations, passes safety checks, and works efficiently.

They'll also certify the installation, which is important if you ever sell your home or make an insurance claim.

And let’s face it—wouldn’t you rather be choosing marshmallows to toast than worrying about roof seals and air vents?

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