Why Reline My Chimney?

Although you may think your chimney’s flue liner is basically bulletproof, time, environmental elements, and insufficient maintenance can lead to deterioration and problems with the lining of your flue. Issues with the flue liner can affect the entire system and put your family and home at risk.

What Causes Damage To My Flue Liner?

There are many factors that contribute to decay or damage within the flue liner, but the most common factors are:

• Animal Intrusion – When your crown or chimney cap is improperly installed, missing completely, or in poor condition, animals can get into your chimney system and wreak havoc. They typically build nests in the flue liner, leaving behind flammable, nesting materials, waste products, and other unpleasant things. This accumulation of materials can lead to fire damage, moisture damage, and decay within the flue liner.
• Water Damage – Problems with flashing installation/deterioration, chimney cap or crown decay/absence, and masonry decay can lead to leaks within the chimney. If you have an aluminum or stainless steel liner, water can rust and corrode the liner, leaving holes for air, smoke, gases, and stray sparks to escape. If your liner is made of masonry or clay, exposure to water can cause cracking and crumbling, leaving the entire liner structurally unsound and inefficient. Call a professional at the first sign of a leak to protect your family from the dangers and costs of water damage.
• Earthquakes/Storms – Earthquakes and strong winds can shift the entire home structure, causing fissures and breaks within your chimney flue. Strong storms can also force water and other debris into your chimney system, deteriorating your flue liner over time. If your home has endured severe weather or earthquakes, have a professional chimney sweep inspect your chimney to check for possible damage to the flue liner.

What Are My Options?

If you notice problems with drafting, inefficiency, or water damage, chances are your flue needs a checkup. Should your chimney sweep recommend chimney relining, there are a few options you can consider.

Aluminum liners are a popular choice because they are cheaper than stainless steel, but they are not recommended for use with all fuel types. They also do not last as long as stainless steel. For wood-burning appliances especially, it is necessary to spend the extra money and have a stainless steel liner installed. Wood-burning fires reach higher temperatures that aluminum is not designed to withstand.

If your chimney has a masonry/clay flue liner, you may have the option of using the HeatShield Cerfractory Flue Sealant in place of an aluminum or stainless steel liner. It can also be used in addition to a traditional liner, for added durability and protection.

Not all flue liners are created equal, and not all liners are designed for use with all fuel types. For this reason, it is important to discuss your options with a knowledgeable professional before making your decision. Most liners are backed by lifetime warranties when properly installed by a professional. Don’t risk your investment by attempting to do it yourself, or you may end up paying for it later.

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If there are other problems or issues with your chimney masonry, experienced craftsmen at Chief Chimney Services, Inc. can help with all types of chimney repair.