Expert: Bart Ogden - 10/17/2010

Question
I have a ranch home with a wood burning fireplace, when i had the chimney cleaned the last time, i found out that the joints between the clay liners are open and there are some minor cracks making it unsafe.
I am wondering if i can put a steel liner in the chimney myself.
Two questions come to mind, the first is that since all steel liners are cylindrical while my chimney is rectangular, how would the fit work?
the second question is do i need the double wall steel inserts or a single wall is fine?
any other concerns, issues or tips would also be appreciated.

Thanks

Answer
Hi Riad,

This is NOT a DIY project.  As simple as it looks, there is a work process that needs to be followed to install a lining system properly.  Typically, to install a lining system, the flue tiles must be removed to allow for a properly-sized lining system insulated with Thermix or another listed material.  Additionally, you must know how to tie in the transition from the smoke chamber to the lining system with the proper materials.

Also, please remember this - Minor cracks are not minor.  Cracked means broken.

I recommend you contact a local CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep to do some on-site diagnosis of your problem and offer solutions for repair.

You can find a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep at www.csia.org.

Thanks for using AllExperts.Com and good luck with your project.

Sincerely,
A. Bart Ogden, President
Home Safe Hearth & Chimney, Inc.
Wichita, KS
Voice 316-265-9828
Fax 316-265-9890
www.HomeSafeKS.com

CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep #2653
CSIA Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician #10
NFI Certified Wood Specialist
NFI Certified Gas Specialist
NFI Certified Pellet Specialist
NFI Master Hearth Professional
NCSG Technical Advisory Council Member

Advice given is general in nature. Local laws and ordinances may govern and/or supersede the information and recommendations provided. Final determinations are the responsibility of a local professional with first-hand knowledge of the situation, and the AHJ.

Note: Dissemination, distribution or copying of any part of this email or its attachments is prohibited without the expressed permission of the sender.