Chimney Lining?

[jungle_jim01]

I had a company in a while ago who recommended a thermocrete lining. The idea was to help reinforce the brickwork which has deteoriated between flues and on the outer wall. I've now repointed the outer wall so hopefully gaps are all closed up again, but looking down the chimney, the brickwork between flues has collapsed slightly and so the flue wall stops approx 75cm from the top of the chimney. I'm thinking that the thermocrete is probably the best option but does anyone know if i'll need to rebuild the flue wall all teh way to the top prior to this?

 

[Schoolmarm]

Speak to someone about twin walled stainless steel flues before doing anything else. I don't think the flue needs to be perfect if you are fitting them, as it would be sealed and insulated all the way from the fire to the chimney top.

 

[jungle_jim01]

will do, thanks for the suggestion

 

[Penners]

Jim - only 75cm? Is it really worth all the cost and hassle of a thermocrete lining to resolve such a small problem? Rebuilding the collapsed area would surely be far less trouble, wouldn't it?

What will you be using the chimney for? If it's for a stove, then I entirely agree with Schoolmarm that a liner would probably be cheaper and a much better bet. This could even be a better solution for an open fire, so long as you (a) insert a register plate above the fireplace, and (b) ensure that the diameter of the liner is sufficient for an open fire.

Don't skimp the job by using a cheap, single-skin liner. Either use a fully insulated double skin one, or a good quality single skin with insulation filling the void between the liner and the chimney.

 

[jungle_jim01]

thanks for the advice. I'm going to be putting a woodburner in. The reason for thinking about the concrete was that there are a few gaps between the flues...when i tested it smoke came out of other fireplaces. I'm starting to think that a liner may be a better option though. Does anyone know how much i can do myself before i need to go through building control or HETAS approved installer? From what i've gathered i think that anything i do to the flue at all will need to go through BC?

 

[Penners]

You need to go through Building Control, I'm afraid. But I still think a flue inside the chimney is your best bet.

Here's chapter and verse:

http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/br/BR_PDF_ADJ_2002.pdf

 

[jungle_jim01]

Thanks Penners...really useful info. Am i right in thinking that by using a HETAS installer i won't need to go through Building Control?

 

[Penners]

I'm afraid I don't know, Jim. Maybe you'd be best to talk to a HETAS installer, or your local Building Control department, for a definitive answer.

Or someone else here may know.

 

[stuart45]

Thanks Penners...really useful info. Am i right in thinking that by using a HETAS installer i won't need to go through Building Control?

Yes you are right, using a Hetas installer means you won't have to go through BC.
A thermocrete lining should outlast an S/S one, although it does cost more.