Expert: James Ball - 12/24/2008

Question
After a recent Chimney sweep inspection (not sure if tech is certified as you recommend) of our stone fireplace, we were told the upper chimney is fine but the lower chimney has several cracks in the flue.  A liner at several thousand dollars or a new procedure just approved but used in Europe for 40 years was also discussed at about $4,000 and they claim to be the only "certified" company in the area to do this.  Both Fire places are no longer wood, but have gas log (non-vented) units.  We have been using the upper one and it generates very little radiant heat.   The mortar and ticking is all intact around the exterior of the fireplace chimney.  Since there is no soot or flammable residue going up the flue, what is the risk of using the downstairs fireplace with gas logs.

Answer
Hello Steve, first I would get a second opinion and 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.
second I am not a big fan of "non vented" any thing. but by code if you change any thing in a chimney the hole chimney must come up to current code.
speak to the second certified sweep and see what he suggests
James