Did you know that chimneys have liners? Well, now you do! If you’ve never thought about your chimney liner, that’s probably because you’ve never had a problem with yours. While that’s great, it may be something to think about depending on the age of your chimney and how much use it gets. At Seacoast Chimney, we offer comprehensive chimney cleaning and repair services, including chimney liner installation. Here’s what you need to know about chimney liners and if you need one installed.
What is a chimney liner?
A chimney liner, also known as a flue liner, is a length of pipe that runs up the length of your chimney. It directs the fumes straight up and out of the top of the chimney, rather than releasing them into the chimney cavity. A chimney liner increases your chimney’s efficiency and cleanliness.
Do I need to replace my chimney liner?
If your chimney walls are deteriorating faster than they should, that means that you need your chimney liner replaced. It’s also possible that your chimney doesn’t have a liner, and you should have one installed. A video chimney inspection can show you the exact condition of your chimney liner and what shape it’s in.
What kind of chimney liner do I need?
Chimney liners are made of different materials depending on what you use your fireplace and chimney for. The three most common types of chimney liners are
- Ceramic or clay tile
- Stainless steel
- Aluminum
Ceramic or clay tile chimney liners are usually installed as part of the original construction of a chimney or fireplace. Because they can last up to 50 years, a tile liner is the best choice for new chimneys and fireplaces. If you need to replace your chimney liner, ceramic or clay tile is expensive and labor-intensive. Stainless steel or aluminum are better options, depending on how you use your chimney.
Stainless Steel Chimney Liners
If you build fires in your fireplace, stainless steel chimney liner installation is the best choice to replace your chimney liner. They can last for 20+ years and are suitable for open fires, furnaces, and water heaters.
Aluminum Chimney Liner Installation
Aluminum chimney liners are suitable for furnaces and water heaters. They keep condensation from building up inside your chimney. It is important to note, however, that aluminum liners are not suitable for fireplaces used for open fires. Aluminum chimney liners are relatively inexpensive and easy to install and are essential to protecting your chimney walls.
Chimney Liner Installation from Seacoast Chimney
If you need a chimney liner replaced or installed, Seacoast Chimney is up to the task. We cover seacoast counties in NH, MA, and southern Maine. Contact us today for information on all our chimney cleaning and repair services.