Clay chimney flue

[ASAHI79]

We moved into our place in late 2023, it has two wood stoves and a double sided fireplace with clay flue liners. The first inspection looked fine, but after one winter, there are a few cracks. The new inspector says we should remove the clay and install a new liner, and we're waiting on a quote. The flues seem like a straight shot, my question is, can we just run a stainless steel liner through the existing clay? Ive seen a few mixed answers online and we're trying to check with the original installer too.

 

[FiresideFrida]

Running a stainless steel liner directly through existing clay flue tiles is sometimes an option but it often depends on the size of your existing flue and the diameter of the new liner.
You need enough clearance for proper insulation and to avoid issues.
Some codes or manufacturers might also require full removal, so I think that's why you found mixed answers.
It's a smart move to check with your original installer and it's good to wait for that quote from the new inspector.
See what their plan entails as they should be factoring in local regulations!

 

[ASAHI79]

Running a stainless steel liner directly through existing clay flue tiles is sometimes an option but it often depends on the size of your existing flue and the diameter of the new liner.
You need enough clearance for proper insulation and to avoid issues.
Some codes or manufacturers might also require full removal, so I think that's why you found mixed answers.
It's a smart move to check with your original installer and it's good to wait for that quote from the new inspector.
See what their plan entails as they should be factoring in local regulations!

What if the original installer is out of the picture? Is it safe to just trust everything the inspector says?

 

[FiresideFrida]

If consulting your original installer is out of the picture, I suggest you get a second quote and opinion from a different, certified chimney professional.
Ask them the same question you asked us about running a new liner through the old one.
It's best they can physically assess your specific situation, measure your flue, and give you a definitive answer based on their expertise and local codes.
It's not that you can't trust what the inspector says.
A good inspector can actually explain why they're recommending a full removal, but I think having two professional opinions gives you a much stronger basis for making a final decision, especially for a job this big.

 

[ASAHI79]

If consulting your original installer is out of the picture, I suggest you get a second quote and opinion from a different, certified chimney professional.
Ask them the same question you asked us about running a new liner through the old one.
It's best they can physically assess your specific situation, measure your flue, and give you a definitive answer based on their expertise and local codes.
It's not that you can't trust what the inspector says.
A good inspector can actually explain why they're recommending a full removal, but I think having two professional opinions gives you a much stronger basis for making a final decision, especially for a job this big.

Thanks, that makes a lot of sense. I agree, getting a 2nd opinion from another certified chimney pro sounds like the right move, especially for something this major. I'll ask them directly about running a new liner through the old one and see what they say after checking it out in person . Appreciate the advice!

 

[FlameKeeper]

That sounds like a smart plan! Bringing in another certified pro to take a firsthand look can definitely help clear things up, especially when it comes to figuring out if you can just re-line the old one. It's definitely a wise move for a big project like this

 

[Flaskr]

Yeah, you can usually run a stainless liner through the existing clay if the flue is straight and the diameter works out. It's pretty common and saves demolition, but check the clearances and venting requirements with a pro so everything stays safe and up to code.