Chimney Maintenance: Choosing the Right Type of Chimney Liner

A chimney can be a great comfort for you and your family, but did you know that are some hidden dangers in your chimney? In order to keep your family safe you will need to inspect your chimney for potential problems that may become a safety hazard later. The chimney liner is one of the many parts of your chimney, and this liner allows the heat and the dangerous gasses to be carried out safely through the chimney and out of your home. If this liner becomes damaged, you will need to repair or replace it before using the fireplace again.

Chimney Inspection

You should have your chimney inspected annually along with your annual chimney cleaning. During the inspection you will want to check for any signs of deterioration, cracks, or any other problems with the flue, brick, mortar, flashings, and the chimney liner.

Chimney liner functions

The chimney liner is designed to protect a masonry chimney by the corrosive byproducts that are created when there is a fire. Chimneys that are not lined and the mortar that is between the bricks can break down over the years from the heat, wood emissions, and dangerous gasses. The gasses that are created by the fire are acidic and in time can eat away at the mortar joints; this could allow the heat and dangerous gasses to come back into the home.

Types of chimney liners

There are three types of chimney liners, which are metal, clay tiles, and cast-in-place.

Clay tile chimney liners - are the most common of chimney liners because they are less expensive and readily available. This is a good option if the chimney is well maintained. A chimney that isn't properly maintained, choosing clay tiles are not the best option. Clay tiles do not rapidly absorb the heat and evenly distribute the heat with the rising temperatures of the fire in the fireplace.

Metal chimney liners - are usually aluminum or stainless steel, which is suitable for gas and wood burning fireplaces. When metal chimney liners are installed properly, they are a durable and safe option to choose.

Cast-in-place chimney liners - are permanent liners that are lightweight and are suitable for all fuels. They also
can greatly improve the structure of aging and old chimneys.

A chimney without a liner is unsafe and should never be without one. Choosing the right type of liner should be easier now that you know the options.

Sources: 5001 Handyman Secrets

http://www.doityourself.com/stry/chimneyliners