Opinions on this fireplace?

[John Kogel]

In a 40 yr old house, this fancy corner feature is cracked and and starting to tip off the metal shelf support. There is work to do to the chimney outside so I said to get the mason to check this. Maybe put in a steel post?

The 4th pic is the flue for the oil furnace. Can a mason fix that with fireclay or mortar? I suggested a metal flue liner as alternative.

[Nick Ostrowski]

Not sure about the cause or remedy in pics 1-3 John but pic #4 defintely needs a new flue liner.

[Matt Fellman]

Not sure about the cause or remedy in pics 1-3 John but pic #4 defintely needs a new flue liner.

Agree.... I'm inclined to think the crack is not a big deal. I'm guessing 60's construction - probably had no chimney cap ever and the liner is shot. I'd be curious to see what the top looks like. I'd bet either totally shot or just rebuilt.

[John Arnold]

Not sure about the cause or remedy in pics 1-3 John but pic #4 defintely needs a new flue liner.

What Nick said. I can't see anyone "fixing" that flue liner. Just put in a metal one.

[John Kogel]

Thanks all. I'm trying to increase my masonry knowledge. No problem with the obvious stuff, it's the small cracks and patches I'd like to be firmer on.

I know this chimney could use a cap and a cricket flashing too. Not bad for the age though.

[Bart Ogden]

Definitely needs a corner post and a liner. Corner post should have been installed when fireplace was built.

Bart Ogden



In a 40 yr old house, this fancy corner feature is cracked and and starting to tip off the metal shelf support. There is work to do to the chimney outside so I said to get the mason to check this. Maybe put in a steel post?

The 4th pic is the flue for the oil furnace. Can a mason fix that with fireclay or mortar? I suggested a metal flue liner as alternative.

[John Kogel]

Definitely needs a corner post and a liner. Corner post should have been installed when fireplace was built.

Bart OgdenThanks Bart.