Why Do You Need A Chimney Liner?

Most chimneys are lined with terra cotta clay flue tiles, each stacked one on top of the other from the foundation to the chimney top. While terra cotta liners can do a great job, over time, these tiles become weakened due to the acidic nature of the vented gases, the extreme heat of fire, and the shifting and settling of the house and foundation. Clay tile liners can also weaken and deteriorate as a result of absorbing the moisture (from rain, snow, and ice) that makes its way into the chimney. But what’s the real harm?

Weakened and deteriorating clay tile liners will shed or spall, crack, and split. And when this happens, not only will pieces of the liner fall down into the chimney and fireplace (sometimes causing flue blockages and smoke problems), but the gases, hot ash, and smoke from the furnace, fireplace, or stove can seep into cracks and holes in the liner and make their way out of the flue itself.

If these escapees come into contact with the masonry of the chimney, they can cause damage to the brick and mortar joints. If they come into contact with nearby framing and walls, they can spark a house fire. And if they enter your air supply, they can cause respiratory health issues and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Restore The Safety Of Your Chimney With A Long-Lasting Stainless Steel Liner

Unfortunately, it’s not easy or cost-effective to replace a damaged portion of a clay tile liner, but thankfully, there’s a better option for full liner restoration, no matter how great the damage may be: stainless steel liners.

Stainless steel liners are stainless steel sleeves that are slipped into the existing liner and run all the way from the appliance or fireplace to the top of the chimney. By connecting to the fireplace, stove, or furnace, these liners ensure that all smoke and gases produced by the fire remain contained and properly exit the chimney, instead of leaking through the cracks and holes in the damaged flue tiles.