How to Install a Propane Range Flue

Prepare the House

• 1

  Mark a straight path from the stove's vent to the ceiling of your kitchen using a long level. Use the firestop as a template to mark and cut a hole in the ceiling using a reciprocating saw. Do not cut through any studs -- select an alternative location if there is a stud.

• 2

  Enter the attic to measure for the firestop framing. Measure the space between the joists along the edge of the hole you cut for the firestop. Measure the sides of the hole parallel to the joists. Use these measurements to cut 4 sections of lumber -- 2 in the parallel direction and 2 that will fit snugly between the joists.

• 3

  Snug the pieces you cut to fit between the joists along the edge of the hole. Screw them in place through the joists using 2 screws on each side. Slide the parallel pieces between the new framing, along the edge of the hole. Screw these to the new framing using 2 screws on each end. Screw the firestop into the newly framed hole from the attic, so that it is flush with the ceiling below.

• 4

  Repeat the first three steps on the roof where the flue pipe will exit the house. Check local building codes for exact clearances, but generally a prefabricated chimney requires 2 inches of clearance between the flue and any combustible materials. Fit the space with a firestop if required.

Installing the Chimney

• 5

  Assemble the flue on the ground using a manual screwdriver and metal screws, unless your flue kit is designed to lock together by inserting tabs into slots and twisting. Hand the flue to helpers on the roof (the chimney may be very heavy). Enter the attic with your screwdriver. Guide the pipe to the firestop on the attic floor as it is lowered through the roof opening. Pass the pipe through the firestop, leaving enough pipe to attach a coupler later. Screw the flue pipe to the firestop in the attic through the lip on the firestop.

• 6

  Climb on the roof. Slip the flashing boot over the chimney stub until it is close to the roof. Apply a bead of caulk inside the boot and push it the rest of the way onto the roof. Attach the boot to the roof using screws. Apply a bead of caulk to the top of the flashing where the storm collar will sit. Fit the storm collar over the pipe and snug it against the flashing. Caulk around the top of the flue pipe and fit the chimney cap on snugly. Screw through the pre-drilled holes in the cap to attach it to the pipe.

• 7

  Fit a coupler designed to work with your particular range cooker into the flue pipe in the ceiling. Install a decorative trim piece around the pipe if desired. Attach the coupler to the vent pipe that came with your range cooker using screws.