Even if you use your chimney every time the temperature drops, you might not know just how vital a role some of its most prominent parts play. One of these key components is the chimney liner, which serves multiple purposes and can be found in the majority of modern homes. The chimney cleaning experts at Chimney Pro in Fort Payne, AL, help area residents with everything from chimney inspections to leak repairs, and they’re here to highlight the purpose behind your average liner.
Even in the case of older homes without preinstalled chimney liners, flue lining has been a recommended addition for the better part of the past century. While state building codes may differ, chimney liners are mandatory according to most fire codes at this point, and the various functions they serve are indispensable. Most of those purposes have to do with the overall safety of the chimney and the rest of the building that surrounds it.
Chief among these defenses is the liner’s ability to protect nearby combustibles from the heat of the flue gases within the chimney. The framing and walls of the home are particularly susceptible to overheating, which could easily lead to a fire. The liner is also the most effective means of keeping other combustion products and hazards — including moisture, smoke, creosote, and carbon monoxide — from making their way into the rest of your home. Many flue gases contain corrosive byproducts that could damage mortar joints and allow these elements to leak through, so having that extra barrier is essential.
Beyond protective measures, chimney liners may also be used to provide a properly sized flue for certain appliances. Items such as gas oil furnaces or wood stoves call for specific flue sizes for optimum efficiency, so you should check with a chimney cleaning professional to see if yours is set up correctly. Liner types range from lightweight and seamless cast-in-place to metal and clay tiles, each with their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.
The dangers of an unlined chimney aren’t worth dealing with, so don’t hesitate to set up an inspection with a chimney cleaning expert to make sure everything is exactly where it’s supposed to be. Whenever you need maintenance or repairs, get in touch with the team at Chimney Pro right away. Our chimney sweeps proudly serve the people of Fort Payne, AL, Chattanooga, TN, and Rome and Dalton, GA, and they’ll have your chimney ready for full use in no time. Give us a call today at (256) 845-9814 or use our contact form to schedule an appointment.