A practical example of a self-built Finnish-type masonry heater, laid in firebricks from layer-by-layer 3D images.
Here is the result of a self-build of a Finnish masonry heater in firebricks; the lime render finish was applied by the customer.
Coeur de Foyer supplied all the materials for the refractory core, namely the high-density bricks, the cast-iron hardware and the specific parts such as the ceramic cleaning doors and/or the connection spigot to the insulated twin-wall stainless steel flue :
see the refractory spigots & collars, the built-in cleaning doors among our various refractory shaped bricks.
A Finnish-type masonry firebox built on site from firebricks and a few cast-iron hardware items.
After several exchanges with the customer to adapt a Finnish masonry heater to the specific situation, we provide a folder of 3D image files showing the brick-by-brick layout of the masonry heater core, which the customer will then clad with a second skin, or not, depending on the thermal behaviour required.
The heater under construction matches the 3D files. Assembly went smoothly thanks to the wet saw that the customer was able to hire from us at low cost. Today we offer a cutting service and pre-cut cores in kit form.
(At the time, all the hardware came from Narvi in Finland - unfortunately we can no longer work with this quality manufacturer following the consequences of a fire at their production site) Today we are the French distributor of the Finnish brand PISLA
In the end, if you can lay bricks plumb, building your own Finnish masonry heater is not difficult, provided you have good planning and a clear definition beforehand. Some basic DIY knowledge is enough to install a heat-storage stove that will bring real added value to your home, while giving you a source of healthy, economical and ecological heat.
At Coeur de Foyer, you will find all the necessary materials available for sale, such as those shown in the photos. In particular, for this article, the dense firebricks for traditional Finnish masonry cores. These modern industrial bricks, "dry-pressed" in hydraulic presses of several tonnes, allow extremely thin joints with refractory grout thanks to their almost perfect flatness!
Warm regards.