Damaged Flue Liner? Reline Your Chimney With M-Flex & Stainless Steel Systems by Northeastern Masonry & Chimney
The flue liner is one of the most crucial parts of the chimney system and should be regularly inspected and swept by a professional chimney sweep. Annual inspections are recommended by both the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and can help alert you to any damage or problem areas within the system early on. If you haven’t had your system inspected recently, give Northeastern Masonry & Chimney a call! We can help ensure that your liner properly contains and removes dangerous byproducts from the home. Contact us today online or call 518-767-9315.
What Is a Flue Liner?
A flue liner is an important component of your chimney system, responsible for guiding smoke and byproducts safely out of your home. Flue liners are typically made from materials like clay, ceramic, or stainless steel and are fitted inside the chimney to create a smooth, protected pathway for smoke, gases, and heat to travel. This inner lining serves multiple purposes: it shields the masonry from the corrosive byproducts of combustion, improves the chimney’s overall efficiency, and acts as a safety barrier to prevent heat from escaping to the home’s structure.
Without a properly functioning flue liner, your chimney would be extremely unsafe and prone to damage. That’s why building codes require the installation of a flue liner in all new chimneys. Even if your home was built before this requirement, having a professional inspect and reline your chimney is crucial for the safety of your family.
What Are the Signs of a Damaged or Deteriorating Flue Liner?
Due to exposure to toxic gases, flue liners don’t last forever. Over time, the extreme heat, moisture, and chemical byproducts of burning fuel can cause the liner to crack, crumble, or erode. Here are some common signs that your flue liner needs attention:
- Cracks or holes in the liner. These openings will allow dangerous gases to escape into your home.
- Excessive creosote buildup. Creosote is a flammable byproduct of wood burning that can coat the inside of the flue. Too much buildup increases the risk of a chimney fire.
- Crumbling, missing, or deteriorating liner material. A damaged liner is a compromised liner and it can jeopardize the structural integrity of your chimney.
- Musty odors or signs of water damage. A damaged liner can allow moisture to penetrate the chimney itself and nearby structures.
- Difficulty achieving proper draft or airflow. This is a sign that the liner is obstructed or damaged.
Unfortunately, the interior of your chimney can be difficult to inspect thoroughly, which is why we always recommend scheduling a professional chimney inspection with Northeastern Masonry & Chimney at least once a year.
Is It Safe to Reline a Chimney Myself?
Relining a chimney is a complex task that requires a deep understanding of both the structure of your chimney and local building codes. Attempting to reline a chimney without professional training can lead to improper installation, which compromises the liner’s effectiveness and could result in serious safety risks.
Relining your chimney is an investment in the safety of your family and property. Hiring a professional ensures the job is done right the first time, saving you from potential headaches and expenses down the road. Northeastern Masonry & Chimney takes pride in providing reliable, efficient, and safe chimney relining services that Albany homeowners can rely on.
Can I Use My Fireplace if the Flue Liner Is Damaged?
Using your fireplace when the flue liner is damaged can be risky. A compromised flue liner loses its ability to contain heat and gases effectively, which means the high temperatures from a fire can escape into the surrounding chimney structure and potentially ignite combustible materials within your home. This significantly raises the risk of a house fire and can lead to expensive repairs or even catastrophic damage.
A damaged liner also allows toxic gases like carbon monoxide to leak into your home. Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, making it particularly dangerous as it can cause serious health issues, including nausea, dizziness, and, in severe cases, unconsciousness or death.
If you suspect that your flue liner is damaged or failing, it’s in your best interest not to use your fireplace until it has been inspected and repaired. The team at Northeastern Masonry & Chimney is equipped to assess the condition of your flue liner, provide comprehensive repair solutions, and make sure your fireplace is safe to use again.
What Are the Benefits of Using an M-Flex or Stainless Steel System to Reline My Chimney?
Stainless steel liners are incredibly popular because of their durability and longevity. These liners are designed to take the heat and byproducts of just about every fuel type and can be retrofitted into virtually any chimney. The stainless steel liners we typically install are oval or round and available in a variety of sizes. We offer both rigid and flexible stainless steel liner options, so even unique chimneys can be relined with stainless steel.
Our M-Flex lining system is crafted from the highest-quality steel on the market and is designed to withstand even the highest temperatures. It also resists the damage that typically results from the acids and freeze-thaw cycles associated with combustion and the elements.
Our UL-listed stainless steel lining systems also come with a manufacturer’s Lifetime Warranty which is valid as long as they’re properly and professionally installed. With proper maintenance, worrying about replacing a Northeastern Masonry & Chimney-installed stainless steel liner will be a thing of the past.
Call Northeastern Masonry & Chimney Today!
When it comes to maintaining your chimney’s safety and functionality, every detail matters. With Northeastern Masonry & Chimney, you can rest assured that your flue liner, and the entire chimney system, is in good hands. We offer expert inspections, repairs, and relining services to keep your home safe and your fireplace in peak condition. If you have concerns about your flue liner or if it’s time for your annual inspection, call us at 518-767-9315 or click here to schedule an appointment.
HeatShield® offers Albany homeowners a proven and time-tested chimney relining solution.