Yep, I am lost. Are you saying that the chimney need not exceed 2' above the ridge in Peter's case? Also, is the same true for gas fireplaces or is this wood only?
-Stu
The 10/2 rule in VA and other states is the minimum required by code. You can build a house to minimum codes if you want but probably won't be very happy with parts of it.
A lot of other factors have to be considered:
1. The chimney builder has to follow the drawings given to build by. If there is a problem in his mind he needs to discuss it with the builder. Lawsuits from home owners and insurers tend to involve everyone that had responsibility and received compensation from a project.
2. The builder must know what is required of the equipment/fuel/appliance being used in the chimney as well as the code and be compliant with all, as a minimum.
3. If there are extenuating circumstances such as prevailing winds sweeping over a roof and causing a down draft that has to be dealt with in addition to the minimum.
In the end you want a chimney, whether real or fake, to do the job it was intended to do safely and efficiently, while looking attractive, even if it requires going beyond the minimum codes. Minimums are for non-thinkers and non-achievers.:2cents: