Expert: James Ball - 1/4/2009

Question
i'm thinking of putting in a wood fireplace insert. my chimney is fine, i went too two places and, they said i need a insulated pipe, very expensive.. went to another place, and of course, they said i didn't.. whats the deal, is it true or a scam... thank you very much...steve

Answer
Hello Steve, 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. You must insulate a solid flue insert. you can also check with your local building department. I either insulate and line to the top or I do not clean the unit. doing it right will be safer, easier to clean and less build up.
James