Your fireplace and other home heating appliances offer a cozy and efficient way to add heat to your home in cooler seasons, but it’s essential that your chimney be in good condition to enjoy the warmth it provides. Damaged components can compromise the efficiency, safety, and proper working of your home heating system.
One important component of your chimney is the chimney flue liner. It plays an essential role in
- directing smoke and combustion byproducts out of your home
- venting and protecting the chimney chase, masonry, or surrounding woodwork from these harmful substances
- keeping heat contained and funneled outside, so your risk of house fires is minimized
It’s a tough job, and over time, chimney liners can deteriorate and require replacement to stay up to code and maintain proper functioning.
How Long Do Chimney Liners Usually Last?
It’s normal for a chimney flue liner to last about 15 to 20 years. After that time, it’s wise to replace your liner to be confident it’s up to code and working optimally.
But other factors influence your chimney’s useful life span. For example, a missing chimney cap or damaged flashing can cause water damage to your flue liner, or a fuel change may necessitate a change in liner to maintain compatibility.
Ultimately, it will be very difficult to know merely by casual observation or timing when it’s time to have your chimney liner repaired or replaced. If you’re concerned your liner needs care, be sure to call us in.
How Do I Know if It’s Time To Replace My Chimney Liner?
At the end of the day, the only way to accurately determine the condition of your chimney liner and the necessity of replacement is to have your chimney professionally inspected. The Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommends that this be done annually.
But while inspections are the ticket to understand your flue liner’s condition, there are several signs to watch for that may indicate your liner needs attention.
- Flaking debris. One of the most visibly apparent signs that your flue liner might need replacement is the presence of flaking debris. If you catch sight of fragments of tile or masonry falling into your firebox or thimble, it could be an indication that your liner is deteriorating. If what you’re noticing is dark flakes of soot or creosote, you’re overdue to have your chimney swept and inspected.
- Smoke in your home. Smoke or smoky odors in your home is an unpleasant experience, but it could also be a sign of a damaged chimney liner. That’s because a damaged liner may not effectively be channeling smoke and gases outdoors any more, compromising indoor air quality.
- Visible cracking. Do a visual check. As best you can, inspect the interior of your chimney for any visible cracks or gaps in the liner. Cracks allow heat, smoke, and gases to escape into your chimney’s masonry, which can weaken its structure and pose a safety risk. If cracks are readily apparent, it’s clear that your liner needs some TLC.
- Rust or corrosion. If your flue liner is metal, be on guard for signs of rust or corrosion due to exposure to heat and moisture. Like cracking, corrosion, or warping signals deterioration that requires attention.
- You’ve suffered an event. If you know you’ve experienced a chimney fire or other event such as a lightning strike, flood, or other substantial water damage, be aware that these occurrences can be extremely damaging to your chimney system – that includes your flue liner, which may no longer be providing the protection it should. Never put your system to use after a significant event without first having it professionally inspected.
- Fuel change. Stainless steel liners are very versatile and can be used with gas, wood, pellet, and oil fueled systems. But if you’ve converted your system to use a new fuel type and are uncertain about what type of liner you have, it’s important to have it checked out. Not all flue liners are engineered to be used with any fuel type.
Having Your Chimney Relined: How We Can Help
You’ve lived in your house 15 years, so you know the liner is at least that old. Or maybe you’ve experienced a chimney fire, storm damage, or a recent inspection has revealed that your flue liner is in disrepair. At English Sweep, we’re certified chimney experts, so we can help you through the process through diagnostics, answering your questions, til the moment your reliable new or newly-repaired liner is securely in place.
We offer a variety of options to meet your particular needs, such as:
- Stainless steel liners. These are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion. Installing a new stainless steel liner will resolve widespread liner damage, while in other cases an existing liner can be repaired.
- Aluminum HVAC liners. Your fireplace isn’t the only system that requires effective ventilation. We can help with your HVAC system, too, and partner with you in selecting the appropriate liner material for it.
- HeatShield Flue Resurfacing. If liner damage isn’t too extensive, you may be a good candidate for HeatShield. HeatShield is a specialized ceramic material that can be applied to an existing liner to restore its integrity. It’s inserted into compromised mortar joints or cracks throughout your system so superheated gases and fumes can be smoothly and effectively vented from your home undeterred by cracks or flaws in your flue liner.
Give Us a Call or Book Online Now
When functioning as it should, your chimney flue liner is a key player in the safety and efficiency of your home heating system. On the flip side, an improperly lined flue will adversely affect energy consumption, airflow, safety, and overall function.
If you suspect repairs or replacement may be in order, contact a trusted professional to schedule an inspection and explore your options. We’re happy to be your partners in keeping your home heating running safely and smoothly.
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