Adding Chimney Liner

Chris M_2

All,

I have a Burnham Megasteam (3 yrs old), and it's purring like a kitten. The exhaust flue goes into a stone/mortar chimney. I added a picture I had on file to show the chimney, but it's barely visible-sorry. When replacing a damaged metal chimney cap, I noticed the exposed (18 inch) terra cotta stack is pretty badly rotted on the inside, and there are even some spots that are completely eaten through.  I could probably just slap the whole thing right off the top of the stone work if I wanted to. Looking down the chimney, it's difficult to tell of the terra cotta liner is in the same shape throughout the whole length, but I'm thinking to be on the safe side, it's probably best to replace the exposed top, and add a steel liner all the way down to join the boiler's flue. Is this something a homeowner can handle on his own? I'm a pretty handy guy, and know my way around a trowel and tin snips. How are these liners obtained? Can a flexible, stainless steel liner be used, like the one I installed for my pellet stove an ran up the same chimney (although a different vertical shaft and cap)?

Steamhead

I wouldn't DIY this

it requires some special tools and know-how. Get a pro to handle it, you'll be glad you did.