Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Converting gas insert to vented gas logs

I have an original masonry fireplace built to be woodburning in a 1997 home. Wood has never been burned in the fireplace. The previous owners had the fireplace converted to a heatilator gas insert. I have removed the insert. There is a gas line in the floor that I plan to attach a vented gas log set to. My question- There is a 4 inch diameter flexible metal exhaust line running to the top of the chimney with insulation surrounding it. Obviously I will need to remove the insulation, but can the exhaust pipe be left in the chimney, cut to where it is not visible? A professional sweep quoted me $2000.00 to remove the pipe and ready the chimney for the vented gas logs. This seems extreme in a new never used chimney. Thank you.

Most people remove gas logs or wood to install inserts--not the other way around.

After you remove the liner and insulation, you would need a level II inspection to ascertain the suitability for other uses. If you plan on burning vented logs, the chimney must be suitable for burning wood. No, a 4" alum. liner would not do and must be removed. You would need a listed stainless steel liner sized to the opening of the fireplace with the proper insulation to meet the 2,100F listing. You must remove any damper or block it wide open per code and the listing.

Go to www.f-i-r-e-service.com to locate an inspector nearest you.

HTH,
Hearthman