Expert: James Ball - 10/1/2008

Question
I am buying a Fireplace insert and I need to know if I have to line my chimney.  I am being told yes and no so at this point I have no idea.  Right now it is a terra cotta tile pipe.

Answer
Hello Jacquie, by code you must line from the outlet of the insert to the first flue tile, but to clean that might cost more than a full relining. my advise would be to have the liner go all the way to the top and it must be insulated (blanket wrap is fine). Cleaning will be very easy as from the bottom or the top just running a brush through.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have and maybe give you a price?
hope this helped
James Ball