Does My Chimney Liner Affect the Masonry?
Chimney liners are essential but often misunderstood chimney components. Our chimney technicians are asked many questions about them, such as, “Does my chimney liner affect the masonry?” It’s a good thing to seek answers because the more you know about chimneys, the safer you will likely to be. Below, learn the basics about chimney liners and answers to other questions you may have. For reliable chimney liner services and much more, contact the trusted chimney experts at Chimney Saver Solutions.
What does a chimney liner do?
As chimney safety components go, none do more than the chimney liner. The following are the three primary things chimney liners do:
Contain Carbon Monoxide
Chimney liners keep toxic combustion gases safely contained until they exit outdoors. Carbon monoxide is among those hazardous fumes, and it is known as a “Silent Killer.” A liner must be fully intact. Otherwise, these potentially deadly fumes will seep into your home.
Conain Extreme Heat
Liners can withstand extreme heat, and they protect you from out-of-control home fires. If there is even a tiny crack in a flue liner, however, the heat from fires could result in a catastrophic home fire. It happens through a process known as “pyrolysis,” in which the temperature at which flammable materials ignite is significantly lowered.
Protect the Masonry
Chimney liners also protect your chimney masonry. That’s the answer to the question, “Does my chimney liner affect the masonry?” Without the liner, the combustion gases would erode the mortar and corrode the masonry. The penetration of the gases diminishes the lifespan of the chimney when there is no chimney liner.
Does my chimney really need a liner?
After conducting chimney inspections, CSIA-certified chimney sweeps must sometimes report back to homeowners that a flue liner replacement is necessary. Learning about unexpected home maintenance expenses is seldom considered good news. However, catching a damaged chimney liner before harm is done is something to be glad about.
What is the lifespan of chimney flues?
On average, chimney flue liners last for approximately 15 to 20 years. A liner is recommended if, for instance, you have lived in your home for 15 years. Call the professional chimney technicians at Chimney Saver Solutions to ensure your chimney liner system is up to code.
What is the most common cause of chimney flue liner deterioration?
Creosote is a corrosive combustion byproduct of wood fires. It is the most common cause of chimney flue liner deterioration. If moisture is mixed with creosote in your chimney liner, your flue liner will deteriorate at an accelerated pace.
How often should a chimney liner be swept?
Schedule chimney cleaning either annually or when ⅛” of creosote has built up in the flue liner. Creosote cannot always be removed with a professional chimney brush. Creosote deposits take other forms. For example, one type of creosote is like tar poured down the chimney liner. Qualified chimney companies carry the special equipment needed for the removal of the more difficult types of creosote.
Do chimney flues need to be a certain size?
When a new heating appliance is installed and it utilizes the chimney, the sizing of the flue liner must be according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
If the liner is too small or too large, the efficiency of the appliance will be negatively affected. A smoky appliance may be one of the results of an incorrectly sized flue liner.
Contact the Chimney Experts for Chimney Liner Replacement
The CSIA-certified chimney sweeps at Chimney Saver Solutions have earned a reputation for professionalism and reliability. We offer comprehensive services such as flue liner replacement, chimney cleaning, chimney inspections, fireplace installation, masonry repair, chimney crown replacement, and chimney cap installation.
Call for answers to your questions, even “Does my chimney liner affect the masonry?” Contact us today by calling 804-440-5000 or by filling out our online form.