When Should I Reline My Chimney?

Chimney relining should never be delayed. Failure to do this task immediately can endanger your property and your life as well.

The liner is the protective layer that ensures that heat and embers do not reach the combustible parts of the building around the chimney. This is very important, especially for the wooden portions of the structure as it only takes three hours for them to catch fire. Simply put, not having a liner is a fire hazard.

But a flue lining does more than just protect your house from going up in flames. It also makes your chimney gastight.

Unbeknownst to many, the mortar and bricks that make up the chimney are permeable. Hence, fumes can seep through them and enter living spaces. This is dangerous as being exposed to these gases can affect your health.

Lastly, the flue liner prevents the mortar joints from deteriorating quickly. The gases produced when burning are very acidic. They can cause the mortar to erode.

Without the joints, the chimney becomes structurally weak. When left unaddressed, this problem can shorten the service life of your chimney.

Suffice to say, a flue liner is essential for you to be able to safely use your wood-burning appliances and fireplaces. It is also necessary for your chimney to last long.

So, this brings us to the question – what situations warrant chimney relining services? Having an unlined chimney, a damaged liner and a newly installed heating appliance are some of the reasons why you need to install a flue lining.

Unlined Chimney

Clearly, you need to enlist the services of a relining specialist when your chimney is unlined. This is a very common situation in old buildings, particularly period houses or those over 60 years old. This is primarily because it wasn’t mandatory to line masonry chimneys back then.

Nowadays, however, it is part of building and fire codes. So, houses on the market should have flue liners installed.

To be sure though, ask a chimney specialist to conduct a CCTV inspection. This is the best way to find out if there is a liner installed and what its condition is.

Damaged Liner

Most linings are designed with durability in mind. In fact, they are meant to last decades with proper and regular maintenance.

Stainless steel liners have a guaranteed service life of 20 years or more. Meanwhile, clay and ceramic (Eldfast) liners can last 50 years.

While they are supposed to be hard-wearing, this does not mean that they won’t get damaged until the end of their service life. They may deteriorate faster or develop cracks, especially if they aren’t checked or cleaned regularly.

Having a damaged liner is as dangerous as not having a liner. For one, the cracks can act as gateways for fumes to get into your home. Moreover, when the liner is not in tiptop condition, it won’t be able to efficiently perform its function.

Installing a New Heating Appliance

Getting professional chimney relining service is necessary if you are installing a new appliance like a gas furnace or wood stove.

Each heating appliance has its own unique venting requirements. This is why, if you are converting your fireplace into a different fuel, you need to change your liner. It is also essential for the right liner size to be installed to avoid gas leaks, excessive creosote buildup and improper ventilation, to name but a few.

It should be noted that it is not enough to have a flue liner installed. It is important for the lining to be placed properly. Hence, you should only allow a professional chimney relining specialist to do this job. This expert possesses the knowledge, experience and tools necessary for top-notch flue liner installation.

Searching for a reliable chimney relining services provider in Dublin and Leinster? Access Chimneys has been relining chimneys for over 40 years. Call us today on +353 872805825!