Does my chimney need relining ?

[lifesabeach]

Hi, i have been using my fire for the past 2 months burning coal or logs
last week i noticed the wall behind the grate had cracked.
today we have noticed upstairs above the door architrave a sooty mark there is a small hole and we can smell the fire comming from it.
Is it safe to carry on using?

 

[Terrywookfit]

No of course it is not!!

Get a capped off smoke test done to verify!!

Fumes from solid fuel KILL!!

DO NOT USE !!

 

[JOHNBOY42]

Got to agree with Terry.....do not use it ....carbon monoxide is the silent killer..get a gas fitter out who will do a smoke test and it sound as though it may have be be relined

 

[lifesabeach]

We only had the chimney swept 2 months ago
should 'nt he have spotted a problem ?

 

[Terrywookfit]

Many firebacks have cracks without causing any problems!!

What is the construction of your flue??

Is it brick or lined??

 

[lifesabeach]

I am not sure, the house was built in 1970.

 

[Terrywookfit]

You probably have a lined chimney that has developed a fault!!

Get A HETAS reg contractor to do a "Capped off" smoke test to verify fault!

 

[lifesabeach]

Thanks very much for your help

 

[bernardgreen]

If you intend to continue burning logs and / or coal then you need to take account of the corrosive condensation that will be formed from the smoke when you decide on the type of lining.

 

[lifesabeach]

I had the sweep/repair my chimney yesterday so the problem is sorted
I hope to have a nice fire again tomorrow.
Thank you all for your help once again.