How to insulate a 2x4 too close to the duct

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Beno

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Feb 26, 2007
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Hi all, I have a Caddy wood furnace and I noticed that, during construction, a 2x4 was placed 1.5" above the hot air duct, in a place where the clearance requires 6" space. I consider placing a fire resistant material in between the duct and the 2x4, which will be much easier than removing the 2x4. Is this a good idea? If yes, what material can I use and where to buy it?
Thanks,
Beno
 
Remove and replace the wood is the correct answer. The internet answer follows:

If not, make two sheet metal heat shields. Place these between the duct and wood with a half inch space between each. That is half inch from the duct to the first shield, half inch to the next shield, then half inch to the wood. Buy 24 gage or thicker steel sheet metal from a hardware store and make the shields as wide as possible. Steel automotive brake line cut into half inch lengths makes good spacers. Use the spacers to hold the shields off the duct and between the wood and steel shields. Not just the width of the 2 x 4, but six inches wider on both sides. Do not close in the edges of the shields, as the mechanism here is convection of the heat away from the metal.

Be prepared to remove all of this and replace the wood if an inspector ever spots it during a real estate sale inspection or other.
 
Interesting, I didn't think that the fire retarded/resistent shield is such a bad idea. Before I give up on it, what about wood stoves that are installed on a wooden floor, they are also placed on some kind of heat insulator, no? For example: Pre-Fab UL Approved Stove Boards and Mats, dura-rock and wonderboard.
I do have to obey the codes though, so in case of a fire the insurance will not be voided.
As an alternative, I can cut the piece of 2x4 that goes above the duct and anchor the remaining part on the concrete floor that goes above it. This 2x4 was used for a bull nose ceiling support.
 
Beno said:
...cut the piece of 2x4 that goes above the duct and anchor the remaining part on the concrete floor that goes above it...
Click to expand...
+1
 
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