Insulation of chimneys. How to insulate a metal chimney pipe - we make a box and other methods. We do the insulation with our own hands

IN country houses The new type uses boilers of three main types:

  • Heat-based liquids;
  • Powered by solid fuel;
  • Gas boiler.

But in old houses they used stoves. Regardless of the type of construction, in both cases it is necessary to remove the chimney. In order to achieve high-quality heating of the room, you should treat special attention to each part heating system, you need to be especially careful about chimney insulation.

Why insulate?

Regardless of the location, insulation of the chimney pipe is required along its entire length. This must be done because as a result of the combustion of the energy carrier, ash is formed and a volatile product is released, which has a relatively low outlet temperature.

When interacting with the environment on inner surface condensation forms in the pipes. If the combustion product collects in accumulations of moisture, then sulfuric acid is formed, and if, in addition, the draft is disturbed, then a person may suffer from its vapors. Therefore, thermal insulation plays a vital role. It is performed to optimize, improve efficiency and safety. Insulation is necessary in order to reduce the likelihood of a “dew point” - the formation of condensation outside the living space of the room.

How to insulate?

There is no doubt that it is necessary to insulate the chimney pipe, but what exactly this needs to be done depends on the purpose of the pipe, on the location and on the primary source of the exhaust substances:

  • how to insulate a boiler chimney - in this case it would be a good idea to use materials either liquid type (mixtures) or lined with layers (mineral wool or fiberglass);
  • how to insulate the chimney pipe of a gas boiler - taking into account that this will be an outlet made of galvanized iron or steel, then sheet material with high level strength;
  • insulation of an asbestos-cement chimney pipe is carried out with oil paint over the frame and mineral wool, or by plastering in several layers;
  • how to insulate metal pipe chimney - temperature-resistant material is used as a heat-insulating material. It should also not be exposed to fire.
  • How to insulate a chimney pipe on the street can be done either with wooden panels lined with mineral wool or with isolon “walls”. In any case, it all depends on the choice of the owner.
  • how to insulate a bathhouse chimney pipe - insulating material is layers of mineral wool and plywood to create a frame structure.

Insulation of the chimney pipe from the outside is necessary for the reason that sudden temperature changes when exposed to the environment can have a great impact on the integrity of the structure, and being left without a chimney during the heating season is not so great. Tips for choosing polypropylene pipes for water supply, read this page.

How to properly insulate?

The method of insulating a chimney pipe depends 100% on the design of the exhaust “main” and the material from which it is made:

How to insulate an iron chimney pipe?

At the moment, chimneys of this type have become incredibly popular throughout Russia. The “sandwich” is considered less labor-intensive to install. This is a structure that consists of two pipes with different diameter sizes and a heat-insulating material laid between them. Most often this insulation is made of fiber. Experts refer to fibrous insulation as mineral wool. This method of insulation is characterized by a high level of wear resistance. The service life can reach twenty years.

How to insulate a brick chimney pipe?

This type of construction has become less and less in demand, but it was often used in old buildings. Firstly, such pipes are insulated if the thickness of the surface itself is insufficient. The most basic method of insulation is plastering. The pipe is processed from the threshold to the roof itself. Apply 2-4 layers, each time increasing the density of the solution. Familiarize yourself with the types of fittings for polyethylene pipes made from cross-linked polyethylene can be found here.

But, thanks to an innovative approach and new technologies, a brick pipe is now first covered with a frame, insulating material is attached to it and covered with a decorative layer of panels made of plastic, wood and iron.

How to insulate an asbestos chimney pipe?

In order to thermally insulate such a chimney, you need to use galvanized iron. First, an outer layer (casing) of metal is created. Then they are joined to each other. This is done in order to minimize the rate of interaction of the inside of the pipe with atmospheric precipitation. All gaps are filled with insulation. And only after this the upper boundary of the outlet is filled with cement.

The cost of an insulated chimney pipe

Depending on the level of wear resistance of the product and its thermal insulation properties, the price will depend. The cost of the pipe is also influenced by its overall dimensions. Thus, anyone can purchase an insulated chimney pipe at a price from 3,000 to 12,900 rubles.

Insulation of a chimney pipe, how to properly insulate it


Insulation of the chimney pipe. How to insulate iron, asbestos and brick chimney pipes. Recommendations for insulation and use of insulation.

How to insulate an iron chimney pipe

The chimney is one of the essential elements of the heating system. The key to its uninterrupted operation is the insulation of the outer walls of the structure. How to insulate an iron chimney pipe and what materials can be used for this purpose, we will consider in the article.

Why insulate a chimney?

Factors provoking the destruction of the chimney:

  • combustion products contained in flue gases;
  • moisture is condensation that occurs when the outgoing hot air flows and the cold air flowing in from the street intersect.

Combustion products passing through the chimney settle on the internal walls of the structure. If the temperature between the inner walls of the pipe is below the dew point of the gases, then the water vapor cools, turning into tiny droplets and settling on a vertical surface.

Important! The high thermal conductivity of the metal leads to rapid cooling of the exhaust gases and the formation of condensate. Prolonged exposure to condensate is a prerequisite for the internal surface to become overgrown with soot and corrosion to intensify.

You can slow down this process, preventing the destruction of the walls of the structure, by insulating the iron chimney pipe.

Methods for insulating a chimney made of an iron pipe

Insulated steel chimneys are on sale wide range. They are structures assembled from two pipes of different diameters. Down the pipe large diameter a narrow steel pipe is inserted. The free space between them is filled with non-flammable fibrous insulation, for example, basalt or stone wool.

The material for the manufacture of smoke ducts is high-quality stainless steel marked AISI 310, 316 or 321. Along with its excellent corrosion resistance, it is famous for its ability to withstand high temperatures. The outer pipes of sandwich chimneys can be made of the same stainless steel or cheaper galvanized steel.

Use of mineral wool

The easiest way to insulate a chimney made from an iron pipe with your own hands is to cover the structure with heat-insulating material.

Fibrous material has a number of undeniable advantages, the main ones being:

  • excellent thermal insulation properties;
  • high fire resistance;
  • ease of installation.

Using a construction knife, the rolled material is cut into small sections, the width of which corresponds to the diameter of the pipe. Cut mineral wool sheets are applied to a vertical surface and fixed with glue and foil tape. To create a waterproofing layer, the cotton wool is wrapped in aluminum foil.

The finished design does not look aesthetically pleasing, but it fully copes with the task, preventing overcooling of the chimney.

Construction of a sandwich structure

To do this you need to prepare:

  • piece of sheet steel;
  • metal scissors;
  • loose or fibrous insulation;
  • clamps, profiles and screws.

As insulation, you can use slag screenings or basalt wool with a density of 200 kg/m3. This insulation is good because it can withstand high temperatures, is not afraid of ultraviolet radiation and is not susceptible to fungus and mold.

Having measured the diameter of the chimney, determine the size of the future casing on the basis that the distance between the walls of the structures should be at least 6-8 cm. The thickness of the insulation depends on the type of heat generator and the temperature of the exhaust combustion products. For the installation of gas boilers it is 2.5-5 cm, for wood-burning and solid fuel units - from 5 to 10 cm.

The casing is cut from a piece of sheet steel. Using profiles and screws, the sheets are assembled into a common structure, shaped like a case.

Then a case is put on the pipe, maintaining an equal distance between the walls. The space between the walls of the structure is filled with insulation, packing the material tightly to prevent the appearance of “cold bridges”.

Advice: when placing fiber insulation in several layers, it is advisable to move each subsequent layer so that the joints of the slabs do not fall on top of each other.

To protect the chimney opening from precipitation, nozzles - an umbrella or a deflector - are mounted on the pipe.

To make the structure presentable appearance, it can be painted with oil paint, choosing a shade that harmoniously matches the color of the roof.

Nuances of technology

In order for the efforts made to produce the desired result, when insulating a chimney with your own hands, you should adhere to a number of recommendations.

  1. Before performing thermal insulation, you must ensure the strength and reliability of the base of the structure.
  2. The junction of the pipe and the roof should be insulated in such a way that the insulated surfaces have a minimum of points of contact.
  3. When installing mineral wool insulation boards, it is better to use glue that is resistant to high temperatures to fix them to a vertical surface.

How to insulate an iron chimney pipe: review effective ways, Portal about pipes


Options for insulating a chimney iron pipe: using mineral wool, by making a protective casing. Subtleties of technology, how to insulate iron

We insulate the chimney pipe with our own hands

The problem with chimneys in private homes can be their destruction under the influence of a number of factors. Therefore, before starting insulation, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the nuances that will allow you to eliminate the causes of damage and increase the overall service life of the exhaust pipe.

Insulated chimney – guarantee of long-term operation


The chimney is the most important element of the stove or heating system of a private home. For the pipe to function effectively, insulation is necessary, which only seems simple. The design and installation of insulation requires compliance with certain rules and compliance with safety regulations, and professional skills from the contractor.

Why insulate a chimney pipe outdoors?

The chimney experiences heavy loads during operation: the action of hot air and pressure. Tons of combustion products pass through the chimney, which, under certain conditions, enter into a chemical reaction with air and moisture. As a result, the process of natural corrosion accelerates, which leads to disruption of the pipe. Insulation reduces the risk of mechanical and chemical corrosion of the chimney. The costs of insulating the system will be fully recouped, as they lead to tangible positive results.

Causes of chimney destruction

During operation, the chimney elements undergo gradual destruction, which can lead to failure of the entire stove (fireplace) system.

There are two factors that damage the chimney pipe:

Moisture on the walls of the pipe is condensation, which is formed as a result of the meeting of hot air rising from the furnace with cold outside air. As the liquid accumulates, it gradually destroys the pipe. High temperatures act as a catalyst, increasing the corrosion rate several times.

Another reason is aggressive substances that arise during fuel combustion. Under the influence of high temperature and moisture, they form active compounds: acids, alkalis, salts, which penetrate into the thickness of the material along with condensate and cause chemical corrosion.

The impact of destructive factors depends on the temperature difference between the air flow rising from the firebox and the walls of the chimney. The more the pipe is cooled from the outside, the stronger the destructive effect.

Advantages of an insulated chimney

Chimney insulation minimizes the impact of factors that reduce the service life of the pipe. The main task that the insulation solves is to raise the level of condensation formation as high as possible (ideally, up to the very end of the pipe, i.e., to direct contact with the outside air). This is achieved by increasing the temperature on the inner surface of the smoke channel and reducing the temperature difference between the steam and the pipe. Insulation significantly increases the service life of the pipe, and, consequently, its service life. Besides, current repairs pipes will be carried out less frequently and at lower costs. What does chimney insulation provide:

  1. Eliminates the formation of condensation, prevents the action of aggressive components that simply evaporate along with the flow of hot air.
  2. Protects the structure from external factors(air temperature, precipitation, wind).
  3. Provides an energy-saving effect, which consists in lower thermal output of the chimney. This leads to savings in fuel needed to maintain the required temperature in the furnace.

The insulation prevents the destruction of the pipe material under the influence of precipitation, and also increases the frost resistance of the system. Thermal insulation eliminates the effect of elevated temperature on the roofing material in areas of contact with the chimney. This eliminates the risk of roof destruction in the area where the pipe is attached, which leads to cost savings during ongoing repairs.

How to insulate the outside of a chimney?

In order to reliably insulate chimneys, materials are used that provide a high degree of thermal insulation. They exclude the influence of external climatic factors on the heat balance in the chimney duct. Manufacturers building materials offer modern thermal insulation materials in a wide range, some of which are used as insulation for pipes.

Basalt thermal insulation

Thermal insulation, which is made from mineral wool or basalt, is widely used for insulating chimneys. This material is formed by fibers obtained from the melt of volcanic rock - gabbro-basalt, and therefore has high heat resistance and strength. Advantages of basalt thermal insulation:

  • high thermal insulation properties (up to 95% of the heat is stored inside the channel);
  • good permeability to steam with high waterproofing parameters;
  • high chemical and corrosion resistance;
  • resistance to the formation of mold and fungi;
  • vibration resistance;
  • high heat resistance (maintains properties when heated to 100 degrees);
  • non-flammability;
  • environmental cleanliness;
  • resistance to ultraviolet radiation (sun rays).

Stainless steel casing

Recently, standard metal casings in the form of a stainless steel pipe have been used. The use of a metal shell provides high mechanical strength, reliable protection against moisture and aggressive substances.

Such a casing is installed on a chimney made of stainless steel pipe of smaller diameter. The interpipe space is filled with mineral basalt wool. The outside of the casing is covered with insulation up to 5 cm thick. The thickness of the gap between the pipes is 7-10 cm.

Wooden shields

One of the simplest insulation materials is wooden panels. This insulation is made in the form of a wooden frame from panels with dimensions corresponding to the dimensions of the chimney pipes. Slate or other roofing material similar to roof covering is fixed on top of the wooden panels.

After installing the frame around the pipe, the space between them is filled with thermal insulation - felt, mineral wool, slag, asbestos, sand. The seams of the wooden frame must be coated with a waterproofing compound.

Slag concrete, reinforced concrete slabs

The chimney insulation can be made from slag concrete or reinforced concrete slabs. Such plates are installed around the chimney with the smallest gap. The space between the slabs and the pipe, as well as the seams at the corners of the slab joints, are reinforced with steel wire or mesh. The gap is filled with a solution of gypsum, sand and clay. The joints of the slabs are reinforced with concrete mortar. Plaster is applied over the tiled insulation.

How to insulate a chimney with your own hands?

Chimneys of houses have different designs and are made of different materials. The most common: brickwork, asbestos-cement slabs, metal tubular chimneys. Each design has specific properties and requires an individual approach during installation.

Brick chimney

Do-it-yourself insulation of a brick chimney can be done in several ways.

  1. The first method is plaster. On the outside of the chimney made of brickwork fix the steel reinforcing mesh. A layer of plaster mortar 30 mm thick is applied on top of it. The solution is a mixture of lime and slag with the addition of a small amount of cement. After the first layer has dried, apply a second layer of the same solution, and then another 2-3 layers. The last coating is carefully rubbed down, puttied, and after complete drying it is painted or whitened with lime.
  2. Another method involves the use of mineral insulation. A basalt sheet is attached to the pipe on all sides (you can use tape for fastening). Outside, a cladding made of asbestos-cement slabs with a thickness of more than 40 mm is installed on the cotton wool covering. Instead of such slabs, you can build another brickwork. A leveling layer of plaster is applied on top of the cladding.

The main advantages of such a complex design:

  • heat losses are reduced by 2 times;
  • the likelihood of condensation accumulation is significantly reduced;
  • the strength and durability of the structure significantly increases.

Asbestos cement chimney

If the chimney pipe is made of asbestos cement, then insulation is carried out in the following order:

  1. The insulation design with a metal casing, which is made of galvanized steel, is used. In the case where the chimney is long, the casing is mounted from several sections in the form of a cylindrical pipe no more than 1.5 m long (the sections are placed on top of each other with an overlap of up to 10 cm).
  2. The gap between the chimney and the casing must be more than 60 mm. It is filled with mineral wool gradually with careful compaction.
  3. After the gap is completely filled, the top of the structure is filled with thick concrete mortar.

A simplified design can be used. 3 layers of mineral basalt wool are wound around the pipe, then polymer film and foil are applied. Strengthening the structure is provided by metal brackets, which are attached on top of the foil layer.

Steel chimney

Find application steel chimneys, which are made from stainless pipes of the required diameter. The insulation of such a chimney is done using another stainless pipe larger size. The internal diameter of the outer casing must exceed the outer circumference of the chimney by at least 10 cm. The gap between the pipes is filled with thermal insulation material - preferably basalt wool. Filling is done gradually, in parts, with sufficient compaction.

Modern steel chimneys are made in the form of sandwich structures, i.e. in finished form they have a layered system with thermal insulation. This chimney pipe does not require the installation of additional insulation and is reliable in operation.

Insulating a chimney in the attic

The need to insulate the chimney in the attic is determined by the type of room: cold or heated in winter time. If the temperature here is the same as outside, then you need to install insulation on the pipe.

To insulate a pipe in a cold attic, you can use any of the considered structures, taking into account that the likelihood of direct exposure to precipitation is excluded. Therefore, it is recommended to insulate using wooden panels, and the outer side of the frame should be aesthetically treated.

Heated attics are characterized by this design - a frame made of wooden boards or Chipboard thickness not less than 18 mm, the gap between the chimney and the pipe is not less than 50 mm. It is recommended to use basalt wool or felt as a filler.

When making chimney insulation with your own hands, you will need the following standard tool:

When planning private construction, people do not think about the special role of chimneys and the need for their insulation. In fact, insulation is an important element that allows you to increase the durability of the entire stove system.

How and with what to insulate a chimney pipe from the outside: do-it-yourself basalt thermal insulation


The problem with chimneys in private homes can be their destruction under the influence of a number of factors. Therefore, before starting insulation, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the nuances that will allow you to eliminate the causes of damage and increase the overall service life of the exhaust pipe.

Many owners individual houses they are interested in how to insulate a metal chimney pipe with their own hands and how to do it correctly. Every experienced handyman knows that for efficient heating of private houses it is necessary to solve a whole range of technical problems. One of them is thermal insulation of smoke exhaust ducts of stoves, fireplaces or gas boilers. It is worth considering in more detail how to increase the resistance of a metal chimney pipe to temperature changes and how to carry out thermal insulation in the Russian climate.

Why insulate a chimney pipe

During the operation of a stove heating or gas boiler, their smoke exhaust elements are exposed to the effects of combustion products of varying degrees of acidity and toxicity passing through them. Also, a constantly high temperature difference has a negative impact on pipes, especially in the cold winter months.

In the Russian climate, it is imperative to insulate chimney pipes

The combination of these factors contributes to the fact that:

  1. Flammable toxic vapors and their oxides condense and solidify on the inner surface of the pipes.
  2. Slag deposits eat into the walls of the chimney and increase its mass. And excess weight means increased pressure, both on the structure of the pipe itself and on the adjacent parts of the roof of the building.
  3. The compounds released by smoke, among other things, can corrode the materials from which the pipe is made. With constant use, microcracks form in them, which can subsequently lead to serious damage and even destruction of the entire structure, as, for example, in the case of brick chimneys.

Insulation allows owners cottage houses avoid all these troubles. After competently done work, the surface of the pipe will warm up evenly along its entire length, due to which a larger volume of smoke will pass through it without settling on the walls and without destroying the material. This will also increase the strength characteristics of the pipe, and therefore its durability.

This is important! Increasing the thermal insulation of the chimney will also affect the efficiency of the heating system as a whole. An insulated pipe will allow the boiler or furnace to heat up faster, increasing its efficiency while conserving fuel.

Insulating a fireplace chimney

A separate clarification on the issue of pipe insulation should be made for owners decorative stoves and fireplaces. Despite the fact that such systems, as a rule, are used for aesthetic pleasure, and not for constant heating of the room, craftsmen also recommend thermal insulation.

In this case, the main reason for insulating the pipe will not be so much energy efficiency as safety and ease of use.

It is also recommended to insulate the pipes of fireplaces and decorative stoves

Any fireplace, even one that is not used as often as a stationary heat source, must be cleaned regularly after lighting and use. If its chimney is thermally insulated, carbon deposits will form in it less often, which means that the risk that the fireplace will clog will be much less.

How to insulate a metal pipe

The process of insulating metal chimney pipes in a private house begins with the selection of the necessary heat-retaining material. The main characteristics that the insulation must meet:

  • Resistance to high temperatures and extremes. The material must be both frost-resistant and non-flammable, withstanding up to -35 degrees on the outside (for example, on a frosty night outside) and up to 300 degrees on the inside.
  • Relative ease. As in the case of carbon deposits, the applied insulation should not make the pipe structure too heavy and impair its stability. Also, its weight should not be allowed to “press” heavily on the roof or other roof material.

Mineral wool is a common insulation material for chimney pipes.

It is equally important to select the material (including its composition, shape and dimensions) in such a way that it matches the design and type of the chimney itself, otherwise this will be fraught with difficulties during its installation (application).

Materials for thermal insulation

Having clarified the quality characteristics of heat-retaining materials we need, we will consider a number of them, which can most often be found for sale via the Internet in construction markets or in hypermarkets:

  1. Construction plaster. A relatively cheap material that can reduce heat loss by about 25–30%. The disadvantages include the weighting of the structure due to additional retaining elements.
  2. Mineral wool. This type of insulation is least susceptible to thermal effects and is resistant to toxic smoke fumes generated during operation. Cotton wool is used to cover both indoor pipe elements and those facing the street. The coating filler differs in fiber content, fiber length and viscosity (thickness). On sale you can find cotton wool with 4 types of filler: fiberglass, stone chips, basalt and slag. The advantages include its high heat resistance and environmental friendliness.
  3. Cylindrical “sandwich” heat insulator. Its undoubted advantage is ease of installation, since it is sold in “ready-made form” for various diameters of the outlet pipe. The design includes a cylindrical rolled metal made of stainless steel, into which a lightweight mineral wool filler, for example, basalt, is placed, with a longitudinal hole in the center to match the diameter of the pipe.
  4. Extruded polystyrene foam or EPS. Durable waterproof material used for external thermal insulation of stone and brick chimneys. Sold in the form of slabs, divided into classes, depending on heat resistance (or flammability). The coefficient is calculated from 1 to 4, where the first two are the most heat-resistant and can withstand gas temperatures of up to 500 degrees at the outlet of the pipe.
  5. Stainless steel casing. Just like a “sandwich” cylinder, a stainless steel casing is placed on the external elements of the pipe, filling the space between it and the pipe with mineral fiber or asbestos, closing it on top cement mortar from moisture and flammable particles flying out with smoke.
  6. Tree. In order to save money, the material of the “cylinder”, or more precisely in this case the outer box, can be wood. It is made from panels knocked together at right angles so that there is 15–17 cm between them and the pipe. This space is then laid and sealed with a suitable heat insulator.

Cylindrical “sandwich” heat insulator is convenient to use

This is important! The outer surface of the insulating structure can be made of other materials, but it is important that it tightly holds the filler inside and protects it from moisture or wind and gives stability to the structure.

How to properly insulate: nuances of the procedure

Before you begin insulating the chimney with the appropriate material, it is necessary, first of all, to determine the scope of work. Will thermal insulation be installed only on the outer part of the pipe or on the chimney along its entire length, including the pipe in the room.

This will significantly affect the amount of material purchased, as well as directly on its choice. So, it is obvious that if a metal pipe is to be insulated not only from the outside, but also from the inside, then EPS will not be suitable for the master, and the method with plaster will have to be abandoned. In this case, it is best to use sandwich cylinders or mineral wool.

If the master plans to lay the heat-insulating material himself, it is recommended to have the following tools on hand:

  • Hammer drill or screwdriver;
  • Tape measure and pencil (marker);
  • Grinder saw;
  • Scissors for cutting metal;
  • Industrial knife;
  • Hammer;
  • Nails and screws;
  • Spatula, construction mixer and hot melt adhesive (for certain types of work);
  • Safety glasses;
  • Work clothes.

Pipe elbows insulated with basalt filler

Depending on how the master intends to increase the thermal insulation of the pipe and what material he has chosen for this, the progress of the repair and construction work will be determined. Next, we discuss the features of the procedure for thermal insulation of metal chimneys with the materials presented above.

Thermal insulation of the external part with plaster

To insulate the part of a brick or stone pipe protruding outwards using “caulking”, you will need:

  1. Measure the protruding part: its height and width.
  2. Purchase a sheet of material that will cover the structure - asbestos cement, siding or stainless steel - in such a way that you can cover the pipe with it, and there will be a gap of up to 12 cm between it and the outer “box”.
  3. Tightly secure the reinforcement mesh to the pipe walls.
  4. Using a mixer, prepare a plaster solution and apply it to the mesh and pipe in 2-3 layers.
  5. Allow the solution to harden and harden, then place the selected material on the pipe so that it fits tightly around the insulated structure.

You can insulate a brick chimney with plaster

It is advisable to install an “umbrella” or lid on the resulting box so that particles from the pipe or sediment do not fall between it and the pipe, damaging the thermal insulation.

Thermal insulation of the chimney with mineral insulation

Insulation of the outlet channel of a furnace or boiler using fibrous mineral wool is carried out as follows:

  1. In part of the roof slabs around the pipe, a hole is cut 25–30 cm wider than the diameter of the pipe. If the pipe crosses walls along the way, they should also be drilled with holes of similar diameter.
  2. The chimney duct and holes made in the roof and walls are cleaned of dust and invasive construction particles, and the outside of the pipe is rubbed with an anti-corrosion substance.
  3. A heat-resistant sealant, previously cut into pieces, is wound on the outer surface of the pipe in 3–4 layers. Having reached the required diameter for the hole, the mineral wool is covered with a vapor barrier film.
  4. The resulting “sandwich” is tightened with construction tape or crimp clamps.
  5. Next, the operation is repeated along the entire covered length of the pipe so that the insulation segments are adjusted, overlapping each other. The joints are tightly sealed.
  6. The outer “street” segment of the pipe after such “wrapping” is covered with a metal or siding cylinder.

Video: do-it-yourself insulation of a chimney pipe

This is important! The top of the cylindrical casing must be made of heat-resistant material, for example, it can be a special pipe deflector made of a heat-resistant alloy, which is placed on the pipe.

It is also important to consider what the roof slabs are made of. If they are made of slate, roofing felt or other flammable materials, be sure to install a spark arrester on the pipe.

Insulated box

This option is relevant when, for example, the stove and boiler pipes exit through the attic onto the roof parallel to each other. In this case, you can install the thermal protector as follows:

  1. Using a grinder from metal corners or wooden spacers, a box-shaped frame is welded (or in the case of wood, knocked together), so that the gap between its “wall” and the pipe is at least 10 cm, and its height covers the pipes protruding above the roof slabs.
  2. The box is mounted on the roof slab, covering the pipes. Also, the box can rest on the attic floor if the pipes run parallel there too. In this case, the height of the box must be greater, and a corresponding hole must be made in the roof along the perimeter around the pipes.
  3. The resulting space between the “walls” is filled with basalt or other fibrous mineral wool and covered with asbestos or EPS panels. The insulating material is glued with heat-resistant sealants, and the seams are sealed with heat-resistant plaster.

Insulated chimney box

A similar design can also be used in cases where it is necessary to make an attic room from the attic space. In this case, the pipes need to not only be closed, but also decorated. In this case, the column obtained using this method can be covered with wooden or chipboard panels.

This is important! No matter how well the thermal insulation of a pipe is organized, over time it may lose its tightness. A sign of this is the increasing accumulation of smoke condensate, and the appearance of a characteristic odor is also possible. In this case, the outer casing should be removed and the thermal insulation filler checked. If it is covered with fungus or signs of rotting are found, it must be removed and replaced with a new one.

After this, when installing the casing, you should once again make sure that the inner layers fit tightly to each other and are hermetically sealed.

Thus, today thermal insulation of a metal chimney can be achieved in several ways. Technologies and materials allow you to do this yourself both at the construction stage and after, when the chimney has already been laid.

However, if you need to insulate a pipe along its entire length from the boiler to the roof, the help of a professional craftsman may often be required.

Equipping a private home with a gas or solid fuel boiler or stove heating requires high-quality performance of such work in all respects. Heating efficiency depends not only on the power of the heating system, its type and the presence of modern materials in the design, but also on the quality of the thermal insulation of the heated room and its structural elements. The chimney is an element of the heating system, which, along with the boiler or firebox, is subject to the harmful effects of combustion products, combustion temperatures and temperatures environment. Insulating the chimney helps to minimize the effect of temperature changes on the chimney design, making it more efficient in terms of heat retention and more aesthetically pleasing in the overall appearance of the building. We will talk about how to properly insulate a chimney pipe with your own hands. What materials to choose, their advantages and disadvantages.

Why do you need to insulate your chimney?

Smoke exhaust system from a furnace or boilers various types based on the main building element - the chimney. Chimneys are made of metal, asbestos, galvanized pipes and brick. During operation, chimneys are exposed to elevated temperatures and seasonal ambient temperatures. In cold weather, when the chimney works intensively for its intended purpose, it is most actively exposed to the influence of temperature differences. The amplitude ranges from + 200 degrees or more to - 35 degrees. Constant heating and sudden cooling leads to a cyclic change in the structure of the molecular lattice of the material from which the chimney is made. A material, be it metal or brick, expands when heated and contracts when cooled.

The inside of the chimney is also susceptible to moisture. Not the absolute amount of moisture from combustion materials enters the atmosphere. A certain amount of it often settles on the inner walls of the chimney. As condensation accumulates, it becomes a constant phenomenon and takes an active part in the destruction of the walls (especially brick) of the chimney.

Such processes negatively affect the integrity of the chimney structure. Adding here the natural weathering of building materials and the action of aggressive components of combustion products deposited on the inner walls of the chimney, we understand that the durability of chimneys is a very dubious indicator.

But there is a solution to the problem. It does not eliminate the entire complex of aggressive factors, but effectively copes with most of them. Insulation is able to delay the action of destructive chemical and physical processes and largely minimize their effect.

Advantages of insulation

The insulated design of the chimney not only acquires protection from harmful factors, but also becomes more effective in terms of useful action. The retained heat naturally increases the efficiency of the entire heating system.

Having completed the insulation, you will not have to waste time and money on periodic chimney repairs.

Roof elements located in close proximity to the chimney will no longer be exposed to hot temperatures emanating from it.

Another advantage is that the chimney can be made to match the overall aesthetic appearance of the building, be it private house or just a garage.

Another pressing reason for insulation modern buildings, in particular, a chimney, is the amount of heat loss passing through it.

What insulation materials exist?

The choice of material for insulation will perhaps be the most decisive factor in the entire work. The complexity of the installation process, the effectiveness of the result and the appearance depend on the selected material.

The following materials are used for insulating chimneys:

  • mineral wool insulation;
  • fiber insulation;
  • slag concrete and structural elements made from it;
  • broken brick;
  • foam glass;

Each of the above materials has a different price category, mechanical properties and density. The material should be selected taking into account the local conditions of the chimney. It is important to take into account the ease of installation, since the insulation of such structures involves working at heights, and this is not something to joke about.

  • The use of flammable materials is strictly prohibited.
  • It is better to choose a material that is pliable and light. Cinder blocks are used by professional builders based on a developed project with calculated loads on the roof and load-bearing structures. Self-insulation is much easier to do with mineral wool.
  • Pay attention to the operating recommendations specified in the manufacturer's instructions.

Do not load the roof structure. Try to approach the matter from the point of view of the lightest possible insulating structure.

The design of an insulated chimney and its features

The figure shows an example of insulation of a chimney pipe with mineral wool and a galvanized sheet (left), and insulation with mineral wool and decorated slag concrete (right). This example is considered for a chimney made of asbestos-cement pipe.

A comparative example of how thermal insulation works is shown in the figure, as they say: “Find 10 differences.”

A layer of insulation material protects the structure from condensation inside and from weathering outside.

How to insulate a chimney pipe with your own hands: basic design parameters

There are several ways to insulate yourself. The difference between them is due to the material used.

For the “Rich Way” option, you can use a ready-made chimney sandwich. This product is manufactured at enterprises and combines the optimal performance and properties of an insulated chimney. All you have to do is assemble it as a constructor, based on required height designs.

Chimneys made from asbestos-cement pipes are insulated in two ways. The first involves wrapping the pipe with insulation (mineral or basalt wool), fixing it with wire and putting the casing on top of the insulation. The second method is implemented by lining the pipe with special slag concrete blocks and, if necessary, insulating it with mineral wool, as in the first example. This method is more labor-intensive and expensive.

1. An asbestos-cement pipe is wrapped with a 100 mm thick layer of heat insulation.

It should be taken into account that the insulation tends to shrink when it is fixed. Its minimum thickness (in a compressed state) must be at least 60 mm.

2. Fix the insulation with wire along its entire length. In this case, it is necessary to maintain the same thickness along the entire length.

Do not use wire with an electrical insulating layer (wire) to fix the heat insulator. When the chimney heats up, the rubber or vinyl insulation of the wire may not withstand the high temperature and melt. Thus violating physical properties insulation and its integrity.

It is better to use thin steel wire.

3. The next stage involves wrapping the insulation with a galvanized sheet.

The sheet can be used up to 1 mm thick; it is more flexible and easier to install. To determine the circumference, use a tape measure, but add 20mm to the actual measurement. This is necessary for the overlap, which will serve as a connection point with rivets or screws.

If possible, roll the edges at the seam to give it an ideal circle shape.

Place the section on the pipe better with a seam inside. The appearance of this design is more aesthetic.

The final stage of insulating an asbestos chimney is the installation of a protective cone to prevent rainfall from entering the chimney pipe.

This method of insulation is one of the most economical. It also provides for relatively simple installation.

No matter how simple the process of performing work at height may seem, you should not expose yourself to thoughtless risks. Therefore, all work on insulating chimneys of any design must be carried out by two people.

Another popular way to insulate an asbestos chimney is to use chimney bricks. The space between the brick and the pipe is filled with insulation (mineral wool).

This method is more expensive due to the cost of the brick. Brickwork also weathers over time.

Chimney made of steel pipe.

Insulation of a chimney made of a steel pipe is carried out in a similar way. It should be taken into account that steel has greater thermal conductivity compared to asbestos cement, so it is better to use basalt wool. The clamp is also made of galvanized sheet steel.

Insulation of a brick chimney is the most labor-intensive process compared to other types.

One effective way is to plaster the chimney. This method involves laying a mixture of cement, lime and slag over the entire area of ​​the outer surface. The layer thickness must be at least 30 mm.

After applying the first layer, it needs to be allowed to dry. This will help identify cracks in the applied layer and eliminate them. The subsequent layer can be applied after laying the mineral wool layer. After which another layer of plaster is applied. Subsequently, such a chimney can be whitewashed or painted. As an option, you can use facing bricks, but this makes the structure much heavier.

Required materials and tools

The materials required for insulation are listed in the examples discussed.

Tools required to perform insulation:

  • plumbing tools (hammer, clamps, pliers, screwdrivers, etc.);
  • measuring instrument (tape measure, ruler, square, level, construction pencil, felt-tip pen);
  • mounting knife for cutting insulation;
  • a riveter and a set of rivets for connecting a galvanized casing (or self-tapping screws);
  • electric drill and portable cable extension 220 V;
  • drills with a diameter of 4 mm for making holes for rivets;
  • for work on applying cement mortar you will need a spatula, trowel and a container for mixing the mortar;
  • You may need a construction syringe with a tube of bitumen mastic to seal small cracks. But mastic may also be needed for additional waterproofing of the plaster.

Bitumen mastic can be diluted with gasoline if it has hardened. In this case, the amount of gasoline is determined by eye. Add a little to the mastic and stir until it has a sticky consistency.

We should not forget that any method of chimney insulation is work at height.

Rate workplace taking into account all possible risks. Try to minimize them. Prepare the ladder in advance, check its condition, reliability and stability. If you have to move on a roof with slate flooring, walk on the laid boards, this way the weight is better distributed over the area. The board should be laid across the slate waves. Check the integrity of the ropes used to lift materials and tools. If possible, secure yourself with a rope, wrapping it around your waist and securely fastening it to the supporting element of the structure. (In ideal conditions, this is the use of a mounting safety belt). Work in special clothing.

Errors leading to undesirable consequences

Sometimes, in order to save money, a pipeline is passed through the ceiling without insulation. Such actions are undesirable; insignificant savings can lead to tragic consequences.

To prevent this situation, the chimney should be insulated along its entire length.

The exception is the area in close proximity to the furnace or boiler. It is necessary to leave a section up to 500 mm long uninsulated. This will prevent overheating of the insulation, as it may lose its properties due to critical overheating. Data on the critical temperature for a particular material are indicated by its manufacturer in the operating instructions.

Experience shows that thermal insulation of furnace equipment is becoming increasingly in demand. The costs of insulation or even reconstruction of the smoke exhaust system are more than recouped due to economical heat consumption.

A wide range of materials and construction solutions allows you to use your imagination and make things more interesting.

How to insulate a chimney pipe with your own hands: choice of materials, technology, instructions with photos


Advantages of various thermal insulation materials. How to insulate a chimney pipe with your own hands, why to do it.

How to make non-flammable thermal insulation of chimneys

When fuel burns in stoves and fireplaces, carbon monoxide is formed. They are removed through the chimney. Despite its apparent simplicity, this design is complex. Chimneys are installed to provide the necessary draft, so they should be correctly brought to the roof, the height determined and connected to the roofing. Properly made thermal insulation for chimneys is also important.

Reasons for insulating chimneys

Furnace gases leaving the furnace outside have a high temperature. When they rush up the chimney channel, condensation forms on its inner walls. This leads to the following problems:

  • if moisture is absorbed into the chimney material, it will deteriorate over time;
  • sometimes droplets of water settle on the surface of the outlet channels, which reduces their permeability and allows smoke to leak into the room;
  • when condensate constantly flows down the walls of the chimney, smudges, hanging drops and an unpleasant odor appear.

Thermal insulation of the chimney helps to avoid these troubles and extends its service life.

Pay attention! The chimney is insulated to prevent rapid cooling. If you do it incorrectly, then positive result there is no need to count.

Methods for insulating furnace ducts

How to isolate the furnace channel depends on the material from which it was made. You can make insulation using:

  • crushed bricks;
  • slag;
  • expanded clay;
  • basalt or mineral wool;
  • kaolin, etc.

After installing the containment shell, the smoke exhaust structure is lined. For this purpose it is used:

  • brick;
  • slag concrete and reinforced concrete slabs;
  • galvanized metal casings;
  • wooden boards;
  • profiled sheet, etc.

Note! The easiest way is to buy a ready-made insulated sandwich pipe and install it at the stage when the chimney is being built.

Let's take a look at some thermal insulation options separately.

Basalt wool insulation

This method of protecting chimneys is attractive due to its accessibility and is therefore used more often than others. Basalt wool has a thickness of 20-100 mm and can withstand temperatures up to 750 degrees. This fire-resistant material is wrapped in several layers around the pipe and secured with wire. A layer of plaster is applied on top.

Lining the chimney with stainless steel sheets is done in the following order:

  1. measure the perimeter of the pipe, including insulation;
  2. cut a piece of sheet steel up to one meter long and a width equal to the perimeter of the structure plus an allowance for fastening;
  3. round the sheet and finish the edges with a roller;
  4. put the resulting form on the stove chimney, pull it together and fasten it with metal screws;
  5. In the same way, install several more metal casings on top of each other (make sure that the seams run at an angle of 120˚).

Note! If you do not use steel casings, the insulation will not last long and you will have to replace it. Even if you insulate the chimney with foil or film, they will not be able to prevent moisture from penetrating into the basalt wool.

Applications of kaolin

Another method of thermal protection of chimneys is the use of kaolin. The material is characterized as:

Work on installing non-combustible thermal insulation for chimneys is carried out in the following order:

  1. first plaster the stove channel;
  2. then glue kaolin sheets to the wet plaster;
  3. Finally, sew up the chimney with facing material.

Insulation with mineral wool

Thermal insulation using mineral wool is done as follows.

  • Build a sheathing around the chimney from metal profile. The profile size is selected depending on the thickness of the insulation, and the lathing pitch depends on the width of the insulating sheets.
  • Attach mineral wool to the profile in several layers (do not forget to space the seams).
  • Wrap the finished structure with vapor barrier film and seal the joints with tape.

Pay attention! Sheets of metal corrugated sheets can be used as finishing. They are fixed to the sheathing using special screws with rubber gaskets.

How to insulate a chimney also depends on the material from which it was made.

Chimneys - nuances of insulation

Thermal insulation of steel pipes

The chimney, made of a round steel pipe, is insulated using a ready-made metal case. In this good quality large diameter galvanized pipe. The difference in the diameters of the chimney and insulation is 16-20 cm. Thermal insulation is installed in this way.

  1. Place the casing on the steel chimney.
  2. Pour expanded clay, broken brick or slag into the space formed between the elements. You can also compact mineral wool, basalt wool or fiberglass between the pipes.
  3. Fill the open area with cement mortar, waterproof it and install a protective casing on top.

Note! The profile steel pipe is sheathed using wooden panels or metal sheets (corrugated sheeting). The distance between the components of the structure is 8-10 cm. The space is filled with insulation and securely sealed on top.

Insulation of brick chimney

In this case, preference is given to mineral wool, which is attached as follows:

  • cut out pieces of insulation the size of which corresponds to the area of ​​the side walls of the pipe;
  • attach the blanks to the brick using plastic dowels with round heads, or use tape (this option is lightweight, but not reliable);
  • cover the attached material with asbestos-cement slabs, corrugated sheets or bricks.

Important! To reduce heat loss, plaster the brick on the outside of the channel, and then cover it with a frost-resistant compound.

Thermal protection of asbestos-cement pipes

Insulating chimney pipes from asbestos cement is done like this.

  1. First, clean the outer surface of the chimney from dust and dirt.
  2. Make a folding metal casing consisting of two halves. When assembled, its diameter should be 12-16 cm larger than the diameter of the pipe. The height of the case can vary within one meter.
  3. Place the bottom galvanized casing onto the chimney.
  4. Fill or compact protective material into the resulting space.
  5. Install the next case and reinstall the insulation.
  6. Cut the top casing together with the asbestos cement pipe at a slight angle.
  7. Cover the insulation with a thin layer of cement mortar.

Note! If you do not install a metal case, the mineral wool will become wet, heavy, crumpled or frayed in the wind. Birds, rodents or cats also take away the insulation.

Insulation of the chimney in the ceiling

When a metal stove pipe passes through wooden floor, the distance between them should be at least 30 cm. If the chimney is lined with brick, then this value is reduced to 10 cm. The opening is filled with basalt wool, and closed from below and above with a metal sheet. Make sure that the chimney is securely fastened to the ceiling.

Thermal insulation for chimneys: types of insulation and methods of protecting chimneys, Portal about pipes


How to insulate a chimney - non-flammable thermal insulation. What materials are used to insulate chimney pipes in the ceiling? Methods and nuances of insulating structures made of

Insulating a chimney in a bathhouse - how to wrap and insulate a metal pipe

One of the most important stages in the construction of a bathhouse is the installation of a chimney. And insulating the chimney of a bathhouse is a mandatory process during its construction, which has two goals: fire safety and corrosion protection.

If you do not make thermal insulation, then under the influence of temperature changes condensation will form, gradually flowing inside and contributing to the destruction of the structure itself.

Insulated smoke exhaust channels warm up faster, making the sauna stove work much more efficiently.

Depending on what the bath chimney is made of, they are used various materials for its thermal insulation.

There are several types of already insulated chimneys for sauna stove, the most common of which are stainless steel sandwich pipes.

There are also ceramic sections that are already installed in expanded clay concrete modules.

And now about everything in more detail.

Why insulate a chimney?

During operation of a sauna stove, its chimney becomes hot, and its inevitable close proximity to flammable materials can lead to a fire.

If the chimney pipe is made of brick, it heats up less, and if the chimney is made of metal, then much more.

Metal pipes heat up over 600 C°, and their proximity to the wooden lining of the steam room is very dangerous, especially if the bathhouse is directly adjacent to residential buildings.

The second, no less important problem is the appearance of condensation in the chimney. Condensation is the main enemy of all smoke removal systems.

This is not just moisture that forms on the walls of the chimney, but an aqueous solution of sulfuric acid, which can destroy almost any material. It appears as a result of the passage of heated air through a still cold chimney.

As a result of the impact of condensation on an uninsulated brick chimney, the masonry is destroyed, since it has the ability to penetrate microcracks in the brick, and when freezing, it expands. Metal smoke ducts also suffer greatly from condensation.

Metal of ordinary brands is not resistant to acids, so it quickly becomes unusable when exposed to condensation.

The only way to combat the appearance of condensation is to insulate the smoke exhaust ducts, in which the pipe will cool less and the sauna stove will quickly reach its operating combustion mode.

Insulation materials

Chimney insulation can be done using various methods using non-combustible materials.

The most common are:

  1. Thermal insulation of the chimney with basalt wool and glass wool. Insulation materials used for both large surfaces of brick chimneys and pipes of relatively small diameter. Available as filler, in rolls or in the form of mats. For its use, it is recommended to manufacture an additional casing.
  2. A method of filling the space around the chimney with heat-insulating material: expanded clay, slag, broken bricks, special heat-insulating granules. This method involves making an additional chimney casing.
  3. Plastering. This is the most common, until recently, method of insulating brick chimneys. For this purpose, a slag-lime solution was used, applied in a layer of 5-7 cm to the reinforcing mesh. After drying, a sand-cement mortar of the same thickness was applied to it. But when the smoke exhaust system was heated and cooled, such insulation cracked and required annual repairs, so this method is considered unjustified from the point of view of labor costs and efficiency.
  4. Chimney insulation modern materials made of foamed polyethylene. “Teploizol” or “Folgoizol” is produced in rolls, is light in weight and has good elasticity, and cuts well, which makes it accessible to even non-professionals to work with. This is the simplest and most inexpensive method of insulating chimneys, widely used today.

Choosing insulation for a chimney

The choice of insulation for insulating a chimney with your own hands must be approached carefully and seriously.

You shouldn’t buy the cheapest one, because it should have good thermal insulation properties, be easy to use, and not require additional reinforcement load-bearing structures roofs and ceilings, be non-toxic and non-flammable.

Stone or basalt wool is an excellent thermal insulation made from basalt stones.

This insulation can withstand prolonged exposure to fairly high temperatures and does not burn, even when in contact with an open fire. In addition, when heated, it does not emit any toxic or unpleasant odors. Such insulation can be safely called an environmentally friendly material.

Glass wool is a type of mineral wool insulation made from waste from the glass industry. Between its fibers there is large number voids, so it retains heat well.

Glass wool does not burn and does not absorb moisture, and, in addition, is not susceptible to rotting and rodents. It is not expensive and easy to use. Most often produced in slabs and rolls.

Teploizol or folgoizol are multifunctional types of insulation made of polyethylene foam and covered with a sheet of aluminum foil. It is produced in rolls and has a thickness from 2 to 10 mm. They can perfectly insulate the chimney of a bathhouse, since these insulation materials can withstand heating up to 150C°-170C°.

We make insulation with our own hands

Insulation of a chimney using mineral, basalt or glass wool can be done in two ways: insulation under a casing or insulation of a chimney without a casing.

In order to insulate a chimney using mineral wool mats, you need to cut out several pieces of slab from them that will correspond to the sides of the pipe from the outside.

Then, using wire stitching, secure them to the chimney.

Important! There should be no voids left between the layer of thermal insulation, otherwise the insulation will lose its effectiveness.

To insulate a metal pipe, you need to wrap it with basalt wool and secure it with wire around the entire perimeter. After that, put a second pipe of larger diameter on the chimney to make a kind of sandwich.

This method of thermal insulation of chimneys is the most effective and simple, but it allows reducing heat loss by more than half, as well as significantly reducing the fire hazard and the formation of condensate in smoke exhaust systems and protecting them from destruction.

Thus, thermal insulation helps to increase thermal efficiency and safe use ovens. At the same time, it gives the building and the structure itself a more aesthetic appearance.

Chimney insulation


How to insulate a metal pipe in a bathhouse. Materials for thermal insulation of chimneys, fire safety and installation of insulation with your own hands.

In any heating system country house In addition to the electric one, a chimney is installed to remove smoke, as well as burnt and unburned particles of combustion products. The chimney can be metal or galvanized steel pipes, asbestos pipes or red fire bricks. Since the pipe of any chimney constantly experiences temperature overloads, it is insulated - this is necessary so that condensation does not form on the outer surface, causing corrosion of the metal and destruction of asbestos or brick chimneys. Therefore, any thermal insulation of the chimney increases the service life of the chimney and the entire heating system of a residential building.

Also, the chimney pipe is destroyed from the inside by processes that take place at high humidity, for example, unburnt particles quickly settle on a damp surface of metal or brick, moisten and settle, turning over time into a solid layer that prevents the free passage of smoke and gases. It should be remembered that gaseous combustion products are often chemically aggressive, which causes accelerated destruction of the material of chimney pipes.

All these problems are solved by the use of insulating materials - mineral wool and other non-combustible materials that can be used to wrap a chimney pipe made of asbestos, stainless steel or brick. If you insulate an asbestos chimney pipe, this will slow down the destruction of the pipe due to inevitable chemical and physical processes.

How to properly insulate a chimney pipe with your own hands

Insulation of a chimney pipe made of stainless steel or other metal is carried out in the same way as asbestos or brick - it is wrapped in mineral wool, but it is better to use basalt insulation for these purposes, since it is absolutely non-flammable. The insulation is secured to the insulated surface with galvanized clamps. The space around the chimney at a distance of 20-50 cm should also be protected with a metal sheet with a pre-laid layer of mineral or basalt wool.

A chimney made of red refractory brick is more difficult to insulate, and such a stove structure is usually plastered with a layer of 2-4 cm. The mortar used is ordinary sand-cement or with the addition of slag and slaked lime. It is necessary to apply 2-3 layers, each layer of plaster must be completely hardened and dry. Subsequently, the plaster can be faced with brick, whitewashed or painted. It is recommended to use decorative thin bricks so as not to weigh down the insulation area too much and not to overload the roof.

How to insulate a chimney pipe

The choice of materials for insulating pipes in the attic and outside is small, but to this list you can also add fibrous insulation, loose slag concrete, expanded clay, broken brick (construction rubble) and foam glass.

It makes no sense to compare the cost of these insulation materials, since each of them has its own physical structure, technical and operational characteristics. Therefore, how to insulate a chimney is chosen according to location. The main criteria are the material of the chimney in the house, the ease of work and the effectiveness of the result. We can only give general recommendations on choosing insulation:

  1. Do not use flammable insulation materials under any circumstances;
  2. Any insulation must be light, flexible and porous or loose;
  3. Even light thermal insulation can overload the roof elements, so there is no need to complicate the design.

In practice, several methods of attaching insulation are used, and they depend on the selected material. A pipe made of asbestos cement or metal (round) can be insulated from the outside with your own hands as follows: wrap it in mineral or basalt wool and secure it with clamps or wire, or put a metal casing on the fixed thermal insulation material. The second option: there is no need to wrap the pipe - it is covered with special cinder blocks of a special shape, and, if necessary, the top is insulated with mineral wool. More information about these technologies:

  1. Before insulating a metal or asbestos-cement pipe, purchase insulation with a thickness of at least 100 mm - any mineral or basalt wool will shrink when wrapped around the pipe, so a thick layer will not hurt. After attaching the insulation with clamps or soft steel wire, the thickness of the mineral wool layer should be at least 60 mm;
  2. When attaching a heat insulator with wire, it is prohibited to use wire in flammable insulation - electrical wires. As the chimney heats up, it can melt the insulation or even set it on fire. Even if the insulation does not catch fire, the physical parameters of the thermal insulation and the integrity of the insulation layer will be compromised;
  3. Instead of clamps or wire, you can wrap a sheet of galvanized or stainless steel around the pipe. The sheet should be no more than 1 mm thick so that it is convenient and easy to wrap and fasten the edges with rivets or screws. You can calculate the width of the sheet by finding out the circumference of the pipe, and it can be measured with a regular tape measure, adding 20-25 mm to the result for the overlap, where rivets or screws will be attached;
  4. The optimal height of such a sheet is more than a meter, so that a wind protection in the form of an umbrella can be conveniently attached to it on top. It is advisable to roll the seam or protect it with bitumen mastic. If the seam is rolled, it is necessary to ensure that it looks inside the pipe - this way less rainwater and snow will get into it;
  5. The last step when insulating an external chimney pipe is the installation of a protective wind cone-umbrella, which will protect the chimney opening not only from turbulence, but also from precipitation.

This insulation technology is the simplest, fastest, most economical and cheapest.

The best way to insulate a metal chimney

The question of how to insulate a chimney structure on the street has one answer - with non-flammable flexible and soft materials, which are presented on the market with mineral, basalt or fiberglass wool. The advantages of insulating a chimney with thermal insulation are obvious:

  1. An insulated chimney made of asbestos pipe, brick or steel is not only protected from moisture, but also retains heat more effectively, increasing the efficiency of the heating system;
  2. Insulated chimney pipes last longer, which means they will have to be repaired less often;
  3. The roof around the pipe is protected from temperature changes, which means it will collapse less and last longer.

In addition to mineral insulation, chimney bricks are sometimes used, which can be used to insulate an asbestos or metal chimney pipe. The space that remains is filled with the same mineral wool.

All work must be carried out in compliance with safety precautions: insulation of any chimney is carried out at height, so a safety belt, helmet and other rescue attributes are necessary. Plus, you will need an assistant - not only to speed up and facilitate the work, but also for health and life insurance.

How to insulate an iron chimney pipe

To insulate a metal pipe outdoors, use basalt insulation and metal clamps - the rolled insulation must be wrapped around the pipe and secured with clamps every 30-40 cm. A tool that is useful for insulation:

  1. Hammer, pliers, screwdriver, clamp, and other plumbing tools;
  2. Tape measure, metal ruler or square, building level, pencil or marker;
  3. A cutter or scissors to cut the insulation for chimney pipes to size;
  4. A device for riveting and rivets that connect the casing. Instead of rivets, short press washers can be used;
  5. Screwdriver or electric drill, drills Ø 3-4 mm for rivets;
  6. If the chimney is being plastered, you will need: a spatula and a bucket for mortar;
  7. To seal cracks and joints - a construction gun and bitumen mastic.

Safety when insulating a chimney at height

Before insulating a metal or any other pipe, you need to inspect the workplace to assess possible risks in order to minimize them. A ladder prepared in advance and tested for strength, boards for flooring over slate or tiles, strong, proven ropes - all this will ensure your safety during the work.

When laying boards on slate, observe the following rule: boards are laid across the waves. If you don’t have an industrial safety harness, make one from strong, thick rope or belt. One end of such insurance must be firmly attached to a strong, fixed structure of the house or roof. Clothes should not be unbuttoned, have drooping sleeves or a dangling collar, but it is best to use overalls.

When laying a chimney pipe through the thickness of the ceiling, do not skimp on insulation - lay it in this place, even if the ceiling material is non-flammable: heated concrete can ignite decorative finishing ceiling. You don’t have to lay basalt or mineral wool next to the stove or heating boiler, but such areas should be no more than 50 cm wide. If the insulation material can withstand high temperatures (read the instructions for it), then it is better to lay it in these places.

Conclusion

As practice shows, insulating heating and furnace equipment is a necessary measure not only because of saving energy resources, but also in terms of one’s own safety. The costs of such work or a complete rework of chimney channels are paid off by the fact that heat leakage from the house is reduced many times: as you know, heat always tends upward, and around the chimney there is always an area of ​​increased risk of heat loss.

Since every private home has gas or stove heating, then very often, in order to increase the efficiency of its operation, it becomes necessary to insulate a chimney made of brick or a large-diameter metal pipe. These activities should be planned at the design or construction stage.

But even after the roofing work is completed, it will not be too late to insulate the chimney pipe. For these purposes, it is advisable to use modern thermal insulation materials or ready-made products, on a soft or hard frame of which a layer of insulation is applied. Regardless of the chosen method, this will allow you to do everything quickly and efficiently with your own hands. necessary work and extend the service life of the chimney.

Features of the operation of the chimney pipe

If the chimney passes exclusively outside the house, then it takes longer to warm up, and more moisture will be released during this time from the exhaust gases and will settle along with harmful substances on the inner surface of the walls. For this reason, insulation must be of the highest quality. To cover metal and asbestos pipes, you should choose ready-made heat-insulating cylinders, and for brickwork - basalt or mineral wool, EPS boards.

There are several reasons explaining why it is necessary to insulate the chimney pipe:

  • Dew point (moisture condensation). When warm exhaust gases come into contact with the cold walls of the chimney, moisture is formed, which settles on the walls, is absorbed into the material and reduces its characteristics and service life.
  • Aggressive environment. During the combustion process, active chemicals are released, which, when combined with moisture, form weak solutions of nitric and sulfuric acid. Having a negative impact on the entire chimney system for a long time, they can lead to its destruction (even pipes made of stainless steel).
  • Formation of deposits. Without insulation, layers appear on the internal walls of the chimney, which reduce its flow diameter, and the draft becomes worse.
  • Energy saving. Warming up the pipe requires less heat, which leads to lower fuel consumption, and it is easier to maintain a constant temperature in the combustion chamber.
  • Thermal insulation installed outside the chimney increases the strength and stability of the entire structure, especially thin-walled metal chimneys.

The most widely used types of insulation materials are those that are completely ready for installation and those that require protection from the external environment. The first type includes cylinders, on the walls of which a layer of thermal insulation is applied, and shells filled with EPS (extruded polystyrene foam). For the second - soft basalt insulation and mineral wool.

Before carrying out work in the attic, you should check the reliability of the connection of all sections of the chimney, especially those made of metal, and cover them with insulation to prevent the impact of high temperatures on the wooden elements of the roof.

When choosing a material, it is necessary to take into account the operating conditions. The most important indicator is t of exhaust gases. The higher it is, the thinner the layer of thermal insulation can be used, but the insulation must be fireproof and non-flammable.

Insulation of a chimney made of metal pipes

Thermal insulation of chimneys of fireplaces and stoves, which are not the main source of heating and are used periodically, and brick pipes is carried out quite simply - their surfaces are plastered. But if the house has a gas boiler or similar heating device on any other fuel, then sandwich chimneys are installed. Their price is quite high, so you can make them yourself from stainless steel.

Any materials can be used to insulate a chimney made from a metal pipe, but for one made from an asbestos pipe – mineral wool. Asbestos resists heat well and is not flammable, so it is enough to wrap it with insulation of the required thickness and cover it with galvanized sheets. The disadvantages of the material include the ability to absorb moisture and the rough surface of the walls, which increases the likelihood of deposits.

The situation is somewhat more complicated when using bulk material for thermal insulation, since a protective casing will need to be mounted around the pipe, which will also serve as a frame, and then insulation will need to be poured into it. To prevent moisture from getting inside, the gap between the casing and the pipe in the upper part is filled with cement mortar.

Do-it-yourself lining is carried out as follows:

  • Prepare mineral or basalt wool and steel pipes(sleeves), preferably galvanized. Their diameter should exceed the dimensions of the chimney by several centimeters, but not more than 10.
  • The chimney is covered with a layer of insulating material, the thickness of which should be above 5 cm.
  • Fix with foil tape or any soft wire.
  • A protective casing is put on the insulation. The edges of the sleeve, made of thin metal, can be secured with self-tapping screws or using tightening belts.
  • The gap in the upper part of the chimney, which formed between the insulation and the protective casing, is filled with cement mortar to prevent moisture from entering the structure.

Making a thermal insulation cylinder

If there is a need to make a sandwich chimney yourself, then take two pipes - one of a smaller diameter and the other of a larger one. The smaller workpiece through which the exhaust gases will move must be made of high-quality stainless steel with special additives and be well resistant to aggressive compounds and high temperatures.

The outer protective casing is made from a larger pipe. Basalt insulation is placed tightly in the distance between the workpieces (it is made within 6–10 cm). If the temperature of the outlet gases is very high, then loose basal is used. cotton wool Since it does not contain flammable binders, it can withstand heat loads up to 900° C.

Insulation of brick chimneys

Brick has characteristics similar to asbestos and is able to absorb moisture. The surface of the chimney can be plastered or insulated with cotton wool, but it is better to use both options, it will be more correct and reliable. The finishing method should be determined at the design stage of the smoke system and, if possible, provide for the laying of wire for fasteners, ease of access and convenience of work.

When starting plastering, the pipe from the street is cleaned of dust, cracks and chips are repaired. If this is not done, the quality of thermal insulation will decrease. Next:

  • prepare the mixture in the proportions specified by the manufacturer, first pouring water into the container and then adding the dry ingredients;
  • using a spatula or trowel, it is distributed pointwise over the surface of the pipe and leveled;
  • they are covered with a reinforcing mesh, securing it in the spots of the solution;
  • apply the first layer of plaster, trying to cover the entire chimney without gaps, level it and leave to dry;
  • after this, to ensure good thermal insulation, the operation is repeated, applying several more layers;
  • When the pipe is completely dry, it is painted in the color of the roof.

Insulation can be carried out with basalt (stone) wool, which has high fire resistance. It is suitable for work in the attic and outside the house. In a closed room, where there is no excessive moisture and no intense air movement, it is enough to cover the chimney with cotton wool mats, securing them with metal strips. But after insulation on the outside of the house, the basalt should be additionally protected from the effects of weather and atmospheric phenomena.

For this reason, when choosing a material, preference is given to denser insulation, although its price is higher, but such mats are easier to work with and hold their shape well. Fastening is carried out using a solution. The use of foam is unacceptable - it has low fire resistance, and under the influence of high temperatures it quickly collapses.

Additionally, mineral wool slabs can be secured using dowel mushrooms. Finally, the entire structure is sheathed with corrugated sheets, but always leaving a small ventilation gap of 20 mm. Its presence will help remove moisture and prevent the slab from settling. Sometimes it is necessary to construct a sheathing, with support on which the chimney is lined with brick, cinder-concrete slabs and metal siding. But this method too labor-intensive, so it is not widely used.

Another material that is actively used for external insulation is extruded polystyrene foam. It is distinguished by good density, it does not allow moisture to pass through, but when choosing EPS, it is better to give preference to products with a high degree of flammability - with a value not lower than G3-G4.