What is a Chimney Liner?
A chimney liner is a protective barrier installed inside of a chimney flue. Although it can be made of several different materials, a chimney liner’s goal is the same: to protect both the chimney flue against the byproducts of combustion and the home and chimney structure by helping move heat and gases out. Homeowners often have these questions about chimney liners:
- What is a chimney liner designed to do?
- What kind of maintenance does a chimney liner need?
- What are the benefits of stainless steel chimney liners?
- What signs indicate that a new chimney liner may be needed?
Keep reading to learn more about the purpose and necessary upkeep of chimney liners, as well as the benefits of stainless steel chimney liners available from the chimney company near you.
What is a chimney liner designed to do?
Protection is the primary purpose of a chimney liner, which it achieves in multiple ways. In supporting airflow, a chimney liner enables efficient burning in fireplaces or wood stoves, as well as furnaces. It also contributes to ensuring that dangerous gases and smoke exit the home. As highlighted by the American Lung Association, proper ventilation is of vital importance for indoor air quality, especially when wood-burning features are in use. As another benefit to system ventilation and structural soundness, chimney liners also prevent moisture from being contained in the chimney system. A properly installed chimney liner also helps reduce the potential for chimney fires, which may result in extensive chimney repairs or rebuilds, damage to the home itself, and safety risks for humans and pets.
What kind of maintenance do chimney liners require?
In general, chimney systems should be inspected and cleaned at least once a year. The best way to ensure the safety of your chimney liner is to have a professional Level 2 chimney inspection. Unlike a Level 1 inspection, which only assesses visible components of a chimney system, a Level 2 inspection uses video technology to examine the state of your chimney liner. Therefore, if there are any cracks in your current liner or other damage that may compromise its intended function, this more in-depth examination is better suited to their discovery. A Level 2 inspection, as offered at Spotless Chimney and recommended by industry experts, will also help uncover any blockages to air flow, like accumulated leaves or animal nests, or creosote buildup that needs to be addressed. Then, as expected of chimney inspections, the necessary chimney repairs or other maintenance can be completed in order to ensure the integrity and service of your chimney liner.
What are some of the benefits of stainless steel chimney liners?
There are three different types of chimney liners: clay, cast-in-place cement and metal. Our experts at Spotless Chimney only install UL-listed 316 Ti stainless steel chimney liners. The UL listing indicates that a product meets specific safety and fire resistance standards. 316 Ti stainless steel is a high-quality alloy that includes titanium. Although other types of stainless steel and metal chimney liners are available, 316 Ti stainless steel is known for its durability under extreme temperatures and resistance to rust and corrosion.
What signs indicate that a new chimney liner may be needed?
If a chimney system is working as expected, then the condition of the chimney liner probably isn’t given too much thought. Ensuring a chimney liner’s continued service is one reason why annual inspections and cleanings are so important. Additionally, any of the following scenarios may mean that a new chimney liner is needed:
- You are relaxing by your fireplace, only to be exposed to unexpected smoke or unusual odors coming from it. This experience may mean that the liner is damaged and is not ventilating properly.
- You’ve added a new appliance to your chimney system and one that uses a different type of fuel. If you are making an update or change to your system, consult with your local chimney company to make sure that the chimney liner meets the necessary standards and ventilation needs.
- You are reviewing your records of home improvements and realize that your chimney liner may be approaching its 20th year. The lifespan of a chimney liner, like other components of the chimney system, can vary. However, for your safety, it’s better to have a professional chimney expert provide a checkup, instead of waiting for a problem to present itself.
- You notice broken pieces of liner, perhaps broken clay pieces, or a significant amount of creosote buildup. These signs indicate an even greater risk of fire, so contact your experienced chimney expert as soon as possible.
At Spotless Chimney, we can answer questions like “What is a chimney liner?” and provide a wide range of chimney services to help you protect your home and loved ones. Whether you need a chimney liner or want to ensure your chimney system’s performance with chimney inspection and cleaning, we are here to help. We also offer 24-hour emergency service! Contact our experienced team today!
