AskCodeMan

Can an exposed factory-built, UL rated, insulated metal chimney pass through occupied space in the floor above the wood stove location? The wood stove is located at the first floor and the exposed chimney must pass through occupied space to the roof above. Dave

I forwarded your question to my fireplace and chimney person.

The chimney must be protected from incidental contact by humans to prevent burns and contact from combustibles to prevent fires. If this chimney is to be located in a place where contact could reasonably be expected, it must be protected. By protection, I mean sheathed with something such as drywall or paneling while meeting the stated clearances to combustibles.

Now, according to the IRC, the interior spaces must be fireblocked vertically. If you run the chimney up from a lower space to an exposed area, it must pass through a listed firestop. This firestop typically can NOT be caulked or sealed. To do so would increase the temps inside the chase below and cause a fire hazard.

You cannot paint the chimney either. This will raise the temps. of the chimney and void the warranty and listing.

The best solution would be to construct a chase that meets the clearances to combustibles with the listed firestops at each floor and ceiling.

HTH
Hearthman