Home/Fireplaces & Stoves/Guides/Chimney Liner Installation — UK Cost & Spec Guide

Install a chimney liner.

Flexible stainless steel liner for wood-burner or open fire — HETAS-certified install.

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Wrong grade liner

316 grade (gas) corrodes if used for wood. Always 904 for wood/multi-fuel.

No insulation around liner

Cold liner can cool flue gases below dewpoint — tar build-up. Insulation essential.

Inadequate top seal

Rain can enter chimney without proper cowl. Damages liner and chimney.

Sharp bends/kinks

Liner damaged during install. Visually inspect before fitting.

Costs & timeline

Know what it costs. Know when it ends.

Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.

Cost range

By job type

Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Flexible stainless steel liner (316 grade) per metreGas appliances
£30–£60
Flexible 904 grade per metreWood/multi-fuel
£40–£80
Twin-wall rigid flue per metreExternal chimney
£60–£120
Cowl / chimney topCapping the top
£50–£200
Vermiculite insulation fillImproves draw
£80–£250
Standard 5m liner install (with cowl)Domestic semi
£500–£1.2k
!

Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.

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Chimney Liner Installation — UK Cost & Spec Guide infographic
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Chimney liners protect old chimneys from corrosive flue gases and improve stove performance. Essential for most wood-burner installs in existing chimneys. Expect to pay £500–£1,800 for UK chimney liner installation.

What Does the Work Invovle?

HETAS engineer surveys chimney. Top of chimney accessed (scaffold or roof access). Flexible stainless steel liner (904 grade for wood; 316 for gas) lowered down chimney. Top plate (cowl) seated. Liner connected to stove via flue collar. Vermiculite or LECA insulation poured around liner (improves draw and cooler external surface). Pressure tested.

Typical Costs

ItemLow (£)High (£)Notes
Flexible stainless steel liner (316 grade) per metre3060Gas appliances
Flexible 904 grade per metre4080Wood/multi-fuel
Twin-wall rigid flue per metre60120External chimney
Cowl / chimney top50200Capping the top
Vermiculite insulation fill80250Improves draw
Standard 5m liner install (with cowl)5001,200Domestic semi
Longer 7m+ liner install9001,800Multi-storey

How Long Does It Take?

Standard 5m liner: 1 day. Twin-wall through external chimney: 2 days.

DIY or Professional?

HETAS-registered engineer only. Working at height plus combustion safety regulations.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

HETAS-registered. 904 stainless grade for wood burning (more corrosion resistant). 316 grade for gas. Manufacturer warranty 25+ years on quality liner.

UK Regulations

Building Regs Part J — combustion appliances. HETAS notification scheme self-certifies. CO alarm mandatory.

Common Problems

  • Wrong grade liner: 316 grade (gas) corrodes if used for wood. Always 904 for wood/multi-fuel.
  • No insulation around liner: Cold liner can cool flue gases below dewpoint — tar build-up. Insulation essential.
  • Inadequate top seal: Rain can enter chimney without proper cowl. Damages liner and chimney.
  • Sharp bends/kinks: Liner damaged during install. Visually inspect before fitting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a chimney liner?

For wood burner in older chimney: usually yes — improves draw, prevents tar damaging chimney. Modern chimney with intact flue: sometimes optional.

How long does a chimney liner last?

904 grade for wood: 25–30 years. 316 grade for gas: 30+ years. Both typically warrantied 25+ years.

Twin-wall or flexible liner?

Flexible: cheaper, for existing chimneys. Twin-wall rigid: for new chimneys or when running external up the wall. Both have their applications.

Will a liner damage my chimney?

No — properly installed liner protects the chimney from acidic flue gases. Improves longevity of the chimney.

How does a liner improve draw?

Smaller diameter (vs old chimney) heats faster — gases rise faster, drawing more air through the fire. Better burning.

Annual sweep needed with liner?

Yes — annual sweep removes tar and creosote build-up. Liner makes sweeping easier and more effective.

This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.

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