How to Make a Wood Stove from an Old Drum

Recycling an old drum into a functional wood stove is a cost-effective and sustainable DIY project. By following the steps below, you can create an efficient heating solution for your home or outdoor space. Here’s a complete guide on building your own wood stove from a 55-gallon steel drum.

Materials and Tools You’ll Need

To start, gather the necessary materials and tools:

Materials:

• 55-gallon steel drum
• Stovepipe (5-inch diameter or size of choice)
• Barrel stove kit (includes door, legs, and damper)
• Fire-resistant paint (e.g., high-heat spray paint)
• L-brackets, bolts, washers, and screws
• Optional: grill grates, hot plate, or stone hearth

Tools:

• Jigsaw with metal-cutting blades
• Power drill with bits for metal
• Metal file
• Marker or chalk
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles, and mask)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Drum Begin by sourcing a steel drum. Old drums are often available for free or at low cost from garages or scrap yards. Ensure the drum is free of hazardous residues by burning out any remaining oil or grease. Move the barrel to an open, well-ventilated area and carefully light a small fire inside.
2. Cut the Openings Use a jigsaw to create essential openings:
   • Door Opening: Mark a rectangular area for the firebox door near the drum’s closed end. Cut along the marked lines.
   • Stovepipe Opening: Trace the stovepipe diameter on the drum’s top near the back edge. Cut a smaller inner circle, leaving tabs that can be bent upward to secure the pipe.
3. Install the Door Secure the door from your barrel stove kit to the cut opening. Use bolts and a drill to fasten it tightly, ensuring no air gaps. Many kits include pre-fitted doors with adjustable draft systems.
4. Attach the Stovepipe Fix the stovepipe to the top opening. Use self-tapping screws or L-brackets to secure it. The stovepipe allows smoke to vent safely outdoors.
5. Create the Firebox Floor Reuse the top section of the drum you removed earlier as the firebox floor. Attach it inside the drum using evenly spaced L-brackets, leaving a gap for ash clearance. Seal any gaps with heat-resistant exhaust pipe filler.
6. Add Legs for Stability Attach legs from your kit to the bottom of the drum. These provide stability and elevate the stove, reducing heat transfer to the floor or hearth.
7. Install the Damper The damper, often included in the kit, regulates airflow and improves heat efficiency. Install it on the stovepipe or near the door, as per the kit’s instructions.
8. Paint the Drum Use high-heat spray paint to protect the drum from rust and enhance its appearance. Options like matte black or vibrant colors can give your stove a personalized look. Allow the paint to dry completely before use.
9. Optional Enhancements
   • Grates and Hot Plate: Add grill grates or a flat metal plate for cooking purposes.
   • Hearth: Build a heat-resistant hearth using tiles or stone for additional safety and aesthetics.

Safety Tips

• Always install the stove on a non-flammable surface, such as a tile hearth.
• Ensure proper ventilation by connecting the stovepipe to a chimney or vent.
• Regularly inspect for leaks or damage to maintain safety and efficiency.

Cost and Benefits

Creating a drum wood stove is highly economical. The materials, including the drum and barrel kit, typically cost less than $50. Additionally, it is lightweight, portable, and adaptable for various uses, from heating a workshop to providing warmth in a cabin or outdoor setting.

By following these steps, you can transform an old steel drum into a functional and unique wood stove. This project is not only cost-effective but also a rewarding way to repurpose materials while creating an efficient heating solution

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