Liner size by appliance outlet & standard clay-tile sizes

Typical published planning values — NOT a certified spec or professional advice. The 1/10–1/12 flue rule, the 3-2-10 height rule, creosote stages, NFPA 211 inspection levels, clearances and cost bands vary by chimney and appliance; confirm your exact dimensions and follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local code. Creosote, chimney fire, carbon monoxide, structural and code judgement are a CSIA-certified sweep / licensed mason / NFPA 211 / local-code matter — have a certified professional inspect; never a step-by-step procedure or medical advice here.

This companion gives the LABELED recommended liner diameter by appliance outlet (match the outlet — a modern wood stove is usually 6") and the standard clay flue-tile nominal sizes with their approximate inside area, so you can convert an opening or an outlet into a real, buyable size. Measure your own outlet and confirm the manufacturer’s instructions. It backs the flue-liner-size calculator and the wood-stove flue-size calculator.

Recommended liner by appliance outlet

Appliance / outletTypical outlet (in)Outlet area (in²)Recommended liner (in)
Modern wood stove / insert6~28.36 (insulated)
Larger wood stove / high output8~50.38 (insulated)
Wood-fireplace flue (by opening)per rule / listingper opening / manufacturer
Gas appliance (Cat. I)per rule / listingper opening / manufacturer

Standard clay flue-tile nominal sizes

Nominal clay tileApprox. inside area (in²)Round-equivalent d (in)Suits opening up to ~ (in²)
8x8~28–33~6~330
8x12~55–68~9~615
12x12~87–99~11~930
12x16~120–135~13~1,275
16x16~140–160~14~1,500

LABELED planning snapshot — match a liner to the appliance outlet (never smaller), confirm the manufacturer’s instructions, and round a required area UP to the next standard tile or liner. Snapshot: 2026-07-14.