Expert: James Ball - 1/11/2009

Question
We bought this 90 year old house knowing the fireplace didn't work.  A
Chimney Sweep inspected it yesterday with video and said that there were
many large cracks and loose bricks (my wife witnessed the video).  He said it
looked like the box had been rebuilt once.  He said the box and flue needs to
be repaired and it would cost about $5,000.  We are in New Jersey.  He said
even if we were going to use an insert flue liner the bricks would have to be
repaired first.  Just wondering if this is what to expect.

Thank you,

Reed

Answer
Hello Reed, with our seeing this fireplace I would follow the certified sweep's recommendations ( you could get a second opinion) I assume they suggested that you install a wood burning insert and lining and insulating it to the top this is one of the best set ups for older chimney systems, I would also have the other work done too.
Keep me posted
James