How to Install a Wood Burning Stove in a Basement Using Direct Vent Technology

Place your wood stove in a location with adequate clearances from walls and combustibles as recommended in clearance guidelines set by the manufacturer of the stove. If the basement flooring is concrete, stone or another noncombustible material, it is safe to place the stove directly on the floor. Otherwise, place a hearth pad or noncombustible floor protection that extends 6 inches to the front and sides of the stove.

Measure to determine how much riser piping you need, if any. Many building codes require that your vent cap be at least 24 inches above the ground. To raise the vent vertically above the ground outside, riser piping may be necessary.

Connect direct vent stove piping to the flue collar of the stove. Twist and secure pipe sections with metal screws, or follow manufacturer instructions. Install piping so the opening is 24 inches above the ground.

Cut holes in the wall where the piping will penetrate. Drill a starter hole; then, from the inside, use a jigsaw to continue cutting the hole, based on the size of the wall thimble that the piping will pass through. Outside, continue cutting the hole with a jigsaw until it is complete.

Install an insulating wall thimble where the pipe will pass through. Many direct vent package systems come with an appropriate wall thimble. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, adjusting the sleeve of the thimble according to the thickness of the wall. Screw the thimble wall covers with appropriate fasteners. Apply caulking around the edges of the penetrating hardware.

Pass the vent pipe through the thimble so it is just past the wall, and secure a termination cap to the end of the vent.