A chimney liner is the protective channel inside the chimney that carries smoke and gases outside and keeps heat away from the surrounding wood framing. Cracked clay tile liners, unlined chimneys and new appliances usually need a stainless steel liner, sized to the appliance it serves.
Signs you need chimney liner
- Cracked or missing clay tiles found during an inspection
- Pieces of tile in the fireplace or at the base of the flue
- You are installing a new wood stove, insert or furnace
- You converted from oil to gas
- Poor draft or smoke backing up into the room
- A chimney fire has occurred
Our process
- Camera inspection. We scan the existing flue to confirm the condition and measure it.
- Size the liner. The liner diameter is matched to the appliance's requirements for safe draft.
- Install. A stainless steel liner is fed down the flue, connected at the bottom and sealed with a top plate and cap.
- Insulate when needed. Insulation wraps keep the flue warm for better draft and less creosote, and are required in many installations.
Types of chimney liners
- Clay tile — common in older homes; durable, but cracks from chimney fires and settling and is difficult to repair.
- Stainless steel — the most common relining option; works with wood, gas and oil and comes with long manufacturer warranties.
- Aluminum — only for certain gas appliances.
- Cast-in-place — a cement-like mixture poured around a form inside the chimney; strengthens old masonry.
Furnace and water-heater flues
Modern high-efficiency gas furnaces produce cooler, wetter exhaust that can corrode an unlined or oversized masonry chimney. If you replaced your furnace or water heater, the flue may need a properly sized liner.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my chimney liner is damaged?
Usually you can't see it yourself. A Level 2 camera inspection shows cracks, gaps and missing mortar joints inside the flue.
How long does a stainless steel liner last?
A quality stainless steel liner, properly sized and installed, typically lasts for decades, and many carry lifetime manufacturer warranties.
Does a wood stove insert need a liner?
Yes. Inserts should be connected to a full-length liner sized to the stove, both for safety and for proper draft.
Related guides
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