Yes — you can have a log burner without a chimney. A twin-wall flue system acts as the chimney: insulated stainless pipe that vents the smoke safely above roofline, fitted either inside the property or up the outside wall. HETAS’s own guidance confirms most properties are suitable — with or without an existing chimney.
How a twin-wall flue works
Twin-wall flue pipe is double-skinned and insulated, so the gases stay hot and the outer surface stays cool enough to sit close to walls, ceilings and joists. It performs exactly like a masonry chimney, but can run anywhere — through a ceiling into the loft, or externally up the outside wall to a neat terminal.
Internal or external route?
- Internal — up through the ceiling and roof. Neatest inside the home, and it keeps the heat in the building.
- External — up the outside wall. Quicker and less disruptive inside; the pipe is finished in a durable coating and looks like a professional install.
What it costs
A no-chimney installation typically costs £2,800–£5,000 depending on the stove, the flue route and how many floors the pipe must travel — the twin-wall system itself is usually £1,000–£2,500 of that. See our full cost breakdown in how much a wood burner installation costs.
What’s involved
- Free survey to plan the flue route and check the structure
- Flue system designed to Building Regulations — correct clearances and roof termination height
- Stove, hearth and carbon monoxide alarm fitted
- HETAS certificate on completion, which you’ll need for insurance and house sales
FAQs
Will an external flue look ugly? No — a properly fitted twin-wall flue in a matching finish looks tidy and professional. We’ll show you the proposed route before any work starts.
Is a twin-wall flue safe? Yes — it’s fully insulated, installed to Building Regulations and signed off with a HETAS certificate.
Can it be installed in a flat or new-build? Often yes, but check your lease or covenants first — and a survey will confirm the structure can take it.
Do I need planning permission? Usually not, but new external flues and listed buildings have exceptions — see do I need planning permission for a wood burner?
Talk to us about a no-chimney stove
We fit twin-wall flue systems across Kent, Sussex and Surrey — call 01622 278160 or 07383670335, or email info@everwarmfires.co.uk for a free survey, or read more on our twin-wall installations page.