Most people should hopefully know this, but your chimney is far more than just a brick structure that sticks up from your roof. It also has a flue and liner that protects the masonry and the rest of your home from heat, soot, and any combustible elements that could create a fire hazard if it is allowed to build up. Much like other elements in your home, your chimney’s liner will begin to deteriorate over time and need to be replaced.
A good chimney inspection company will be able to determine whether or not you need a new chimney liner, but here some things that you should know before you invest in a chimney relining.
Why Is a Chimney Liner Important?
Even if you seldom use your fireplace, you will need a chimney liner in place. A liner helps to channel all the smoke and gases that are produced when you use your fireplace and keeps them away from the rest of your house’s structure. If your chimney liner is cracked and worn, you will need to have a new one installed before you can use your fireplace safely.
Types of Chimney Liners
There are a few different types of chimney liners available, the most popular and common of which are clay tile liners. These are the least costly liners available, and they can easily last for over 50 years as long as they are cleaned regularly. They are difficult to retrofit into an existing chimney, so it is best to have them installed when a new chimney is built.
If you have an old chimney and want something similar to a clay tile liner, a cast-in-place liner might be the way to go. These liners are created through a poured-cement process, which means they are applied to the inside of a chimney and allowed to dry into a solid liner.
Finally, metal liners are the preferred choice among fire-protection experts. They are made from very durable stainless steel, and often come with a lifetime guarantee. Unfortunately, they are also very expensive, which makes them less popular among homeowners on a budget.
For more information about chimney liners and how you can have your own chimney relined, contact a chimney installation and cleaning service near you.