To insulate or not?

[norman_brown]

Getting ready to start a build and got a steel of a deal on 2 sheets of 3/16 mild steel that was already cut at 24x70. Would it be necessary to insulate a smoker when building with sheets this thick. I see most people use thinner metal when insulating.

Thanks

[Richtee]

What type smoker you looking at making? ANY smoker can benefit from insulation, but some just don't really NEED it. Firebox size, cooking chamber size and shape, etc... all affect the thermal performance.

[norman_brown]

I am looking to build a vertical water smoker. it will be at least 24x24x60 including firebox, firebox will be 12in tall and cook chamber 48in tall and of course 24x24 square!

[Richtee]

I am looking to build a vertical water smoker. it will be at least 24x24x60 including firebox, firebox will be 12in tall and cook chamber 48in tall and of course 24x24 square!

I think BBQEngineer would be more qualified to comment here. But if you do insulate..you double your sheet steel...no?

[norman_brown]

I can get more metal but was just curious if I actually needed it due to the thickness of the metal I already have. The first store bought smoker was thin, maybe 16 gauge and it held temp well even in winter. I ask only because I see most home builds on here are double wall insulated

[norman_brown]

I failed to mention that I plan on using propane assist also

[Mikey]

What type smoker you looking at making? ANY smoker can benefit from insulation, but some just don't really NEED it. Firebox size, cooking chamber size and shape, etc... all affect the thermal performance.

The climate where you live also affects thermal performance. If you experience fairly cold temps and want to use your smoker in the winter months, I'd insulate it...

[AJ]

You don't need to go as thick on the exterior skin. It's main function is to hold the insulation in place, and hold the exterior color you want to show off. If you can, I would indeed insulate it. But, that's me.

[Blackhawk]

I have a wood stove made from 3/16" that I heat my house with in winter. Great "radiant" heat. So as a smoker this is not desirable.

It may be fine at this thickness but as for efficiency the insulating layer will definitely make it much easier to control the internal temps.

[BBQ Engineer]

The thing about insulation is that it reduces the effects of environmental conditions...my smokers work the same in summer heat and winter cold, in the rain, in the sleet, in the gusty winter wind. If you can do the work and swing the added cost, it will benefit you greatly from the stability of your temperatures, the consistency of your cooks and the reduced fuel consumption of your smoker.

[Richtee]

my smokers work the same in summer heat and winter cold, in the rain, in the sleet, in the gusty winter wind.

YOU should be making Postal workers, Dana!

[norman_brown]

Thanks guys' headed to my metal supplier today!