Code in Massachusetts says all stove pipes have to be 2′ higher than anything else within 10′. For this reason, most people with steep roof pitches have stove pipes or chimneys exit at the ridge, or very nearby, meaning less pipe is needed outside. Slighter roof pitches can allow more freedom in this regard.

 

Im working on a project with a steep roof pitch right now where we want a stove to be located along an eave wall, but as such, I’d need about 8′-10′ of stove pipe outside in order to meet this 2′ within 10′ rule. Thats a lot of pipe! It would be more expensive than locating the pipe (and stove) closer to the ridge (more insulated pipe lengths rather than standard wood stove pipes, and the price of the braces). I also is not as pretty in my mind. 

 

However, other than $$$ and looks, might there be other drawbacks as well? Could there be major performance flaws in having so much stove pipe outside the building? Located on the buildings north side, the roof might see some snow accumulation around the pipe when its located lower down rather than closer to the ridge. Also, with proper bracing and all, would that amount of exterior stove pipe stand up to the wind and other elements well?

 

No doubt, we like the interior layout better with the stove along the eave wall, but I want to know what Im risking if I were to put the stove there with so much exterior piping.

 

Thoughts?

Dan