The Purpose of Your Chimney Liner
Prior to the 1940′s there was no active codes requiring chimneys to have a liner, and any chimney without a liner is extremely dangerous to be burned in. If your home was built after the 1940′s then there’s a good chance that you have a liner, but it should still be inspected annually to look for defects.
The chimney liner is the protection on the inside of your chimney from the harsh elements and high temperatures. They also stop harmful gasses from being released back into your home, gasses including carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide which can be lethal.
Your chimney liner also keeps extreme heat away from the wood framing of your home, reducing your risk for chimney fires and structural damage to your home.
There are several reasons you should consider getting your chimney inspected for a possible reline:
- If your current liner is old and has been deteriorating, or parts of it falling out into your fireplace
- New appliances that could require a re-sizing of your current flue
- If you have a historic home that may have been built without a liner to begin with
Relining Materials and Options
Chimney liners are most typically made of 3 things, clay tiles, metal, or in some cases a cast in place masonry. Each of these methods has both its benefits as well as drawbacks. We try to take each situation and come to the best possible outcome while looking at the current situation.
- Cast Masonry – The most involved and thorough method is a cast masonry liner. The old liner is completely removed, and a new one is cast to the inside of your chimney, bonding tightly to the cracks, gaps, and other deteriorating areas forming a seamless liner without any flaws. This is another great option for your historic home, to maintain the original look and feel without sacrificing safety or quality.
- Metal – In regards to pre-fabricated liners, it’s our opinion that the only material worth using is stainless steel. ARC Chimney Sweeps installs our stainless steel liners with a lifetime warranty, as long as they are maintained with an annual inspection and cleaning by a chimney professional.
- Clay Tiles – By far the most common and often times least expensive material used is clay. Clay tiles have been used for a very long time, and when properly maintained with annual chimney sweeps, are often times the best solution. But when routine maintenance isn’t performed on them, they will commonly crack and split into pieces, requiring the relining to take place all over again.
If you would like to talk about chimney lining options call ARC Chimney Sweeps of Fort Walton Beach, FL at (850) 344-1731!