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Connecting a wood stove to a chimney liner is the step where your stove system meets your chimney system. Get it right, and you have a sealed, efficient, and safe venting path. Get it wrong, and you risk smoke leaks, poor draft, and potential CO exposure. This guide walks through the components, the connection sequence, and the most common mistakes to avoid.
Components You Will Need
| Component | What It Does | Typical Size |
|---|---|---|
| Single wall stove pipe | Connects stove flue collar to chimney opening | 6" or 8" diameter |
| Stove-to-liner adapter (boot connector) | Transitions from rigid stove pipe to flexible liner | Matches stove pipe diameter |
| Flexible chimney liner | Runs through masonry chimney from adapter to top | 5" or 6" (match to stove) |
| Top plate | Seals the chimney top around the liner | Sized to chimney crown opening |
| Rain cap | Keeps rain, animals, and debris out | Matches liner diameter |
| Clamps and high-temp sealant | Secure all joints and prevent smoke leaks | - |
Step-by-Step Connection
Step 1: Check the Flue Collar Size
Measure the flue collar on your wood stove. In the U.S., most wood stoves use a 6-inch or 8-inch outlet. The stove pipe, adapter, and liner must all match this diameter. If sizes differ, use a reducer or increaser, but be aware this can affect draft performance.
Step 2: Install Single Wall Stove Pipe
Connect single wall stove pipe from the stove flue collar upward to the chimney opening. Maintain at least 18 inches clearance to all combustible materials. If clearances are tight, use double wall stove pipe instead (6 inches to walls, 8 inches to ceilings).
Step 3: Attach the Adapter
Slide the stove-to-liner adapter (boot connector) onto the top of the stove pipe. The adapter has one end sized for the rigid stove pipe and one end sized for the flexible liner. Secure with a clamp and apply high-temperature sealant around the joint.
Step 4: Connect the Liner
Insert the bottom end of the chimney liner into the adapter. Clamp it securely. The liner runs up through the entire masonry chimney to the top. For best performance, insulate the liner with a wrap blanket or vermiculite fill.
Step 5: Seal the Top
At the chimney crown, install a top plate that seals around the liner and covers the chimney opening. Attach the rain cap to the liner above the top plate. The cap keeps rain, animals, and debris out of the flue.
Step 6: Test
Light a small test fire and check every joint for smoke leaks. Verify that draft pulls smoke upward through the liner. If you see smoke at any joint, tighten the clamp and add sealant.
Safety Rules
- Use only UL-listed components rated for solid fuel burning
- Follow NFPA 211 clearance requirements at all connection points. See our building codes guide for details.
- Have the chimney liner inspected and cleaned annually
- Use high-temperature sealant at all joints to prevent smoke leaks
- Never use tape, duct tape, or standard silicone on chimney connections
Need Help Choosing the Right Components?
Use our free chimney design service. Send us your stove model and chimney dimensions, and we will recommend the right liner kit with the correct adapter within 24 hours. Call us at 888-834-0880 (9 AM - 9 PM, 7 days a week).
Frequently Asked Questions
What size adapter do I need to connect my stove to a chimney liner?
The adapter must match your stove pipe diameter (usually 6 or 8 inches). If the liner is a different size than the stove pipe, use a reducer or increaser adapter.
Can I connect a stove directly to a chimney liner without stove pipe?
In some configurations where the chimney opening is directly above the stove, yes. But in most setups you need at least a short section of stove pipe between the stove and the adapter for proper alignment and serviceability.
Do I need to insulate my chimney liner?
It is strongly recommended. Insulation keeps flue gases hotter, improving draft and reducing creosote buildup. See our guide on insulated vs non-insulated liners.
What sealant should I use at chimney joints?
Use a high-temperature silicone or refractory cement rated for chimney use (typically 1,000 F+). Never use standard household silicone, duct tape, or foil tape on chimney connections.
Need More Information?
Hopefully, you just got all the answers you need, but maybe you still have a question. If you want to know about this or any other topic relating to domestic burners and flue pipes, then please check out our FAQ page.
Here are our installation guides.
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Ready to Order Your Chimney Liner Kit?
Every kit includes a 316Ti stainless steel flexible liner, top plate with storm collar, rain cap, and your choice of appliance connector or tee -- everything matched to work together. Select your diameter and length, and the price updates instantly.
Not sure which size you need? Our team offers a free flue design service -- tell us your stove model and chimney measurements, and we will recommend the right kit.
