Written by Wes Dodd, WD Wood Burner Installations – Poole, Bournemouth & Dorset
If you live in Poole, Bournemouth, or anywhere in Dorset, you’ve probably noticed more and more homes choosing the cosy, efficient warmth of a log burner. A wood burner not only creates a welcoming focal point in your living room, but it’s also a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to heat your home.
I’m Wes Dodd, founder of WD Wood Burner Installations, and over the years I’ve helped hundreds of families across Dorset enjoy safe and professional log burner installations. But I’ve also seen the same mistakes made time and time again – often by DIY attempts or rushed jobs from unqualified installers.
To save you money, stress, and potential safety hazards, here are the 7 most common mistakes to avoid when installing a log burner, along with some insider advice from a local expert.
1. Choosing the Wrong Size Log Burner
Many homeowners in Poole and Bournemouth get caught out by buying a wood burner that’s simply too big or too small for their room.
- Too big: The stove overheats your space, meaning you’ll need to burn it on a low setting, which leads to tar build-up and chimney problems.
- Too small: You’ll constantly push it to its limits, reducing its lifespan and efficiency.
💡 Local tip: Always calculate the heat output you need in kilowatts (kW) based on your room size. At WD Wood Burner Installations, we assess your room carefully so you get a stove that’s perfect for your home.
2. Poor Chimney Preparation
Your chimney is the engine behind your log burner – if it’s not prepared correctly, you’re asking for trouble.
Mistakes include:
- Not having the chimney swept before installation.
- Failing to check for cracks or leaks in the flue.
- Skipping the liner (which is required for safety and performance).
In Dorset, many older houses around Poole and Bournemouth have ageing chimneys. Without a proper liner, smoke, carbon monoxide, and soot can seep into your home.
3. Ignoring Building Regulations (HETAS Compliance)
This is a big one. Log burner installations must comply with UK Building Regulations, including Document J, which covers air supply, hearths, and flue systems.
DIY jobs or unqualified “fitters” often ignore these legal requirements. Apart from risking fines, you’re invalidating your home insurance and putting your family at risk.
✅ As a HETAS-registered installer in Poole and Bournemouth, I ensure every installation is signed off properly and comes with certification for peace of mind.
4. Poor Ventilation and Airflow
A log burner needs oxygen to burn efficiently. Without proper ventilation, you can suffer:
- Excessive smoke in your room.
- Poor combustion, leading to wasted fuel.
- Potential carbon monoxide hazards.
In well-sealed modern homes across Dorset, it’s often necessary to install additional air vents. The right advice upfront saves headaches later.
5. Skipping the Hearth Requirements
Many DIY installers forget the rules around hearth size and material. The hearth isn’t just decorative – it’s a legal requirement to protect your flooring and reduce fire risks.
- It must be non-combustible.
- It needs to be a specific size relative to your stove.
- It must sit at the right height and projection into the room.
I’ve seen plenty of botched hearths around Bournemouth and Poole that fail inspection – and end up costing the homeowner twice as much to put right.
6. Poor Positioning of the Stove
Where you put your log burner matters. Common mistakes include:
- Installing it too close to combustible materials (like wooden beams).
- Not allowing enough space for heat circulation.
- Failing to consider how the flue will run safely and efficiently.
Every home is different – whether you’re in a modern Bournemouth apartment or a traditional Dorset cottage. That’s why I always carry out a site survey before recommending the best spot.
7. Hiring the Wrong Installer
This is the mistake that causes all the others. Some people try to save money by hiring a general builder or going down the DIY route. Unfortunately, log burner installation isn’t a simple trade job – it’s a skilled and regulated profession.
By choosing a local, HETAS-approved installer like WD Wood Burner Installations, you get:
- Safety guaranteed.
- Full compliance with building regs.
- Expert local knowledge of Dorset properties.
- A stove that performs at its best for years to come.
Why Choose WD Wood Burner Installations?
I’m passionate about helping Dorset homeowners enjoy the warmth and beauty of a perfectly fitted wood burner. Based in Poole, I cover Bournemouth, Christchurch, Wareham, Wimborne, Swanage, Dorchester, and the wider Dorset area.
- Trusted local expert: I live and work locally, and I’m proud of my reputation for reliable, friendly service.
- HETAS-approved: Your installation is fully compliant, safe, and certified.
- Bespoke advice: I help you choose the right stove, hearth, and setup for your home.
- Aftercare support: I don’t just fit and forget – I’m here to answer questions, arrange chimney sweeps, and keep your log burner running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Installing a log burner is one of the best investments you can make in your home – but only if it’s done properly. Avoid these seven common mistakes and you’ll enjoy years of safe, efficient, and cosy fires.
If you’re in Poole, Bournemouth, or anywhere in Dorset, and you’re thinking about a log burner, I’d be delighted to help.
👉 Contact WD Wood Burner Installations today for expert advice, professional fitting, and that perfect warm glow in your home.
