If, at any time, your chimney professional tells you that you need a new liner or that you need to repair the existing one, please don’t put it off. Every chimney needs a working liner to usher deadly carbon monoxide gases from your home. If your current liner was installed improperly or if it is deteriorating, it is highly recommended that you have a new one installed by a licensed professional, as a damaged liner can allow poisonous carbon monoxide gases and smoke to enter your home. Depending on the type of chimney you have, there are several different relining options that may be presented to you.
CLAY LINERS
The majority of older homes have chimneys with liners made of clay or clay tiles; it is commonplace to repair or replace them with new clay liners, although switching over to a stainless steel chimney liner is an available option. Clay tiles can withstand extremely high temperatures without damaging or hindering the performance of the liner itself; they also hold up quite well against the corrosive materials that are burned in and pass through the system.
CAST-IN-PLACE LINERS (HEATSHIELD®)
As chimney liners go, Heatshield Relining System® option offers the highest levels of safety, thermal efficiency, and longevity of any liner available. Cast-in-place liners are installed by pumping a concrete-like material around a former, which is inserted down the full length of the chimney. After the lining sets, the former is removed, giving you a smooth, seamless, and extremely well insulated chimney liner. This type is ideal for applications in deteriorated chimneys that need structural support. They are rated to withstand a higher temperature than either the clay or stainless steel liners.
STAINLESS STEEL LINERS
The vast majority of newer homes have chimneys with stainless steel chimney liners already installed. These liners come in two different forms: rigid and flexible. The type your technician will choose ultimately depends on the shape of your chimney. A huge selling point for stainless steel liners, in general, is that it comes with a lifetime warranty. They resist rust and easily hold and move heat and smoke up through the house and out into the atmosphere. If properly installed and maintained, stainless steel liners are extremely safe and durable. It is usually recommended that high temperature insulation be used in conjunction with the liners for safety and performance considerations.
Although building codes vary from one locality to another, the installation of flue liners has been recommended for many years now, and indeed most fire codes now mandate liners. There are many reasons you may need to reline your chimney. Whatever the case may be, you have several options available to you. The CSIA-certified technicians at Old Smokey’s Fireplace & Chimney will be there with you throughout the decision making process to help you determine which relining option best meets your needs and the needs of your family. If you suspect there may be a problem with your liner, call us at 800-876-6539 or schedule your appointment online today! There’s no time to waste.