Do I need insulation?

[peabody]

I am going to be building a smoker with a 2×4 frame and 3/4" tongue and groove pine. Many smokers that I have seen on here don't appear to use any insulation. My neighbor says that If I don't use insulation that it wont work and also if I don't use some type of fire proofing such as a metal casing inside I will start it on fire. Any info is much appreciated.

 

[daveomak]

Peabody, morning and welcome to the forum.....   Insulation is not necessary....  I figure you are using propane to heat the smoker ???

It will work very well.....  By the way, what type of a smoker does your neighbor have and how does he heat it ??  Just curious...

What are your plans for the smoker size ??  3x3x6' ?? or something close.??  In the dead of winter in MN, insulation would be nice to save on fuel..  Unfaced fiberglass between the studs and OSB or plywood or sheet metal or what ever on the inside would work also...   Most smoking is done below 225....  If you need higher temps, finishing in the oven or covered BBQ is always an option....  Smoke the meat in the smoker and move it to an oven.... nothing wrong with that... smoke is not usually added above 160 ish temps anyway...   Dave

 

[peabody]

Thanks for the response. I will use propane and dimensions are still being debated. My neighbor has a huge steel smoker that uses propane. Its steel,insulation,fireproof layer of some kind then stainless inside. Its nice but way to spendy for my budget, especially for a first smoker.

 

[daveomak]

For future info you might like, here is the burner several of our members have found to do a very good job....  Low to high btu output using 3 separate burners....   It is a cool tool in a smoker...  Dave

http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/NTESearch?storeId=6970&Ntt=propane+burner

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Quick Info

Heavy-Duty Single Burner Propane Stove

(32)

Item# 330973

Was $39.99

Sale $34.99 

 

[peabody]

Thanks!

 

[daveomak]

Peabody, one more thing..... Pictures are mandatory during the build....  we love pictures and each build is a new experience.....  Just kidding about the mandatory part but it would be nice and good information for others.... 

 

[peabody]

Ill do my best!