How to Build a Wood Stove Base

How to Build a Wood Stove Base
Written By
Heide Braley
Heide Braley
Published: Apr 30, 2009
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Things You Will Need

  • Plywood
  • Screws
  • Concrete board
  • 2 drywall screws
  • Tile, brick or slate
  • Mortar
  • Wood trim

Safety must be considered during the installation process because a wood stove is manned by opening a door to the fire, which can let sparks or embers into the room. Building a proper base is a must for having a safe installation of your wood stove.

  1. Decide on what type of heatproof surface you want under your stove. It can be as simple as floor tile that sells for just less than a dollar each, brick or even slate. Look around the room for colors to complement or match when you make your decision.

  2. Measure out the area where the base will be placed. The requirements for a wood stove are at least 18 inches in the front and back of the stove and at least 12 inches on either side. Set your stove where you want to install it, measure and use a pencil or piece of chalk to mark out the area.

  3. Lay down a layer of plywood the size of your marked area. Screw it into the floor, sinking the screws below the level of the surface of the plywood. This will give you a base to screw your wood trim into later.

  4. Cut concrete board to fit the space, and screw it down with 2-inch drywall screws. The flooring will conduct the heat and you need the concrete board for the extra insulation.

  5. Install the flooring of your choice. When it is dry and cured, if necessary, install wood trim around the outside perimeter of the base.

Photo Credits

http://www.regency-fire.com/Wood/Stoves/F2400/Images/f2400-425.jpg

http://www.regency-fire.com/Wood/Stoves/F2400/Images/f2400-425.jpg

Heide Braley

Maryland resident Heide Braley is a professional writer who contributes to a variety of websites. She has focused more than 10 years of research on botanical and garden articles and was awarded a membership to the Society of Professional…

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