 Chimney relining is the most practical and affordable way to repair deteriorated or damaged chimneys. Chimneys can be damaged by a number of things such as settling, hurricanes, and lightning. The most common form of chimney damage is a chimney fire. In addition to chimney damage, older chimneys may be unlined or their liners may be deteriorated to the point where relining is warranted.
Reasons to Reline
1. To repair damage to the chimney, which may have been caused by a chimney fire, lightning, settling, etc...
2. To upgrade old chimneys which were constructed without chimney liners.
3. To replace worn, deteriorated liners, which may be allowing smoke, creosote, or condensation to seep through the chimney walls.
4. To properly size the chimney for a new appliance; such as converting from oil to gas heat.
5. To prevent excessive creosote buildup (and risk of a chimney fire) when venting a woodstove through an existing fireplace.
Types of Liners
1. Stainless Steel- This method of relining involves installing a round or oval stainless steel liner in the chimney. The liner can be either rigid or flexible; flexible liners are used for chimneys with offsets. Stainless steel liners are used mainly for woodstoves and some types of furnace installations.
2. Cast-In-Place - This method involves installing properly sized round or oval bladders in the chimney and then pouring (casting) a masonry material around the inflated form. After the material has cured, the form is deflated and removed, leaving a new seamless flue within the chimney. This method of repair is used for fireplaces and some types of furnace installations. This method is especially useful for older, weak chimneys as the masonry material adds a great deal of strength to the chimney after curing.
3. Aluminum - This method is similar to stainless steel, but the liner is made of aluminum. Aluminum liners can only be used to vent certain types of gas appliances. Note: Gaslogs intended for installation in woodburning fireplaces may not be vented with aluminum liners.
4. Flue Tiles - Used mainly in new construction, this method of relining may be suitable for short, straight chimneys. |
