As more of us focus on a greener, more sustainable way of living and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, wood-burning stoves have become increasingly popular in recent years; this trend also includes those who live in ultra-efficient new-build properties. Years ago, you would be forgiven for thinking wood-burning stoves were the preserve of country dwellers in quaint properties.
It might seem unusual, as new homes are often built to precise insulation and airtightness standards. However, modern Ecodesign wood-burning stoves provide a combination of benefits that appeal to a growing audience, including new-build homeowners. These include environmental benefits, cost savings, their aesthetic appeal, and superb energy efficiency, which makes them a good fit for new-build homes.
Here are a number of points why wood-burning stoves and new builds can be a great match:
They are a sustainable, renewable heat source:
An Ecodesign wood-burning stove is a sustainable and renewable heat source. When sourced and burned responsibly, wood is considered a carbon-neutral fuel: the carbon dioxide (CO₂) released during combustion is roughly equivalent to the CO₂ absorbed by the tree during its growth. In contrast, burning gas or oil releases additional “new” CO₂ that was previously hidden underground. Since January 2022, all new wood-burning stoves sold in the UK must comply with Ecodesign emission limits. The Charlton & Jenrick stove range hit this target several years prior. Ecodesign stoves emit far fewer particulates (PM 2.5) and CO, as well as less unburnt hydrocarbons, compared to older models and open fires. For new-build homeowners, choosing an Ecodesign stove guarantees optimal combustion performance, lower smoke emissions, and, a key point, compliance with the latest environmental regulations.
The diagram below illustrates the reduction in PM emissions when comparing an Ecdesign stove with an older stove and an open fire.
Lower Running Costs (and Independence):
While the initial purchase price of a wood-burning stove, plus installation and flue, can be more expensive than other heating appliances, running costs over time tend to be significantly lower than gas or electricity for heating. Plus, a stove, in some instances, can add value to a home.
During cold spells or power outages, a wood-burning stove provides a reliable, off-grid heat source, ideal for rural new builds or areas prone to network disruptions. While many new-build homes in the UK now feature electric heat pumps or are gas-free, those occupants can still face expensive electricity tariffs. By contrast, burning locally sourced logs bypasses both the gas and electricity grid, offering a predictable running cost. Learn more about the type of wood you should burn.
Exceptional Heating Efficiency in Airtight Properties
New-build homes in the UK are often constructed to meet, or exceed, Part L Building Regulations, resulting in airtight envelopes and incredible levels of insulation (e.g., 300 mm cavity-wall insulation, 300 mm loft insulation, triple-glazed windows, etc.). It might initially appear that a stove’s heat would be too much for such a well-insulated space. But in reality, modern stoves are designed with precisely these scenarios in mind. Here are a few points to consider:
Managing Heat Output:
Many Ecodesign wood-burning stoves, including those in the Charlton & Jenrick range, feature primary and secondary air controls, allowing users to regulate burn rate and heat output. By throttling the air supply, you can slow the burn for longer, steadier heat, perfect for a tightly sealed new home that requires less heat.
Flue Efficiency:
Installing a double or triple-wall insulated flue system minimises heat loss up the chimney, directing more warmth into the living space. Many new builds incorporate a dedicated chimney or twin-wall flue designed specifically for stoves, making sure that heat doesn’t disappear up the flue.
Heating Benefits:
In an open-plan new build, placing a stove in the living or dining area allows for rapid warming: the stove’s heat quickly warms up the space, reducing the need to heat secondary rooms. Given that new-builds often have open layouts, heat disperses more evenly than in a compartmentalised older property.
By selecting an appropriately sized stove for your home, measured in kilowatts, you can match the stove’s heat output to your home’s heat demand. As a general guide: a 5–7 kW stove is typically sufficient for a well-insulated two or three-bedroom new build, whereas larger eight-plus kW models suit bigger, open-plan living spaces. Consulting a qualified HETAS installer or stove retailer can help you find your perfect stove.
Other Considerations:
Before you invest in a wood-burning stove for your new-build there are a number of considerations you need to consider:
Building Regulations & HETAS Approval – All installations in the UK must comply with Building Regulations Part J (heat-producing appliances) and BS EN 13240 (conformity for room heaters). Use a HETAS-registered installer to ensure that your chimney/flue, hearth, and clearances meet legal requirements.
Minimum Chimney Height & Flue Position – Even in new builds, you may need to ensure the flue terminal is a minimum of 1 m above the highest point of the roof within 2 m, and at least 600 mm above the roof surface (unless it’s within 600 mm of the ridge). Many new homes are built with a gang-up roof space; check that there’s adequate void and support for a flue.
Smoke Control Areas – Large parts of the UK (especially Greater London, many cities, and designated rural zones) are Smoke Control Areas. Only DEFRA-approved stoves (labelled as “Exempt appliances”) such as those in the Chalton & Jenrick range can burn wood in these zones without contravening the Clean Air Act. If you live in a Smoke Control Area, double-check that your chosen stove is DEFRA-approved before purchasing. Are you in a smoke control area?
Air Supply and Ventilation – Airtight new builds often need additional air supply for combustion and ventilation. If your property uses mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), you may need to fit a dedicated external air vent (30–50 cm² free area) near the stove to ensure adequate airflow. Discuss with your HETAS installer whether you need a direct air supply kit or a purpose-made external air vent to comply with Building Regulations.
Wood storage – You’ll need space to store logs, ideally in a dry, ventilated area. Many new builds include a dedicated utility or lean-to where wood can be stored without cluttering internal living spaces. Avoid storing wood in a garage. Seasoning wood is essential; it can take up to two years to season hardwood. Learn more about the science of seasoning wood.
Maintenance and Sweeping – Ecodesign stoves produce less creosote and emissions than older models, but regular sweeping, at least once per year, or more if heavily used, remains essential. We would recommend a sweep at the start of the stove season, around October and again before its ‘put away’ around April. During heavy use over the winter, we recommend a sweep every 12 weeks or approximately every 50 to 60 hours of burn time. Plan for easy access to the chimney or flue for sweeping. Some new builds incorporate removable panels or clean-out doors to facilitate this. Learn more about what chimney sweeps do.
If you’re looking at a wood-burning stove for your new build, a perfect place to start is with us. We offer a wide range of Ecodesign stoves for homes of all sizes. Discover our range here.
