We Reline Chimneys Throughout Knoxville, Boosting Safety & Efficiency
For many years, if you had a damaged chimney liner you either stopped using your fireplace or hoped you could get at least one more fire out of it without issue. But the truth is, a damaged flue liner is not something to take chances with.
Cracks, holes, gaps, and openings in the flue liner can quickly result in a rapidly spreading fire, carbon monoxide poisoning, smoke problems, and poor fireplace performance – and that’s not something you want to chance.
That’s why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) urge consumers to have their chimney systems inspected annually and repaired or replaced as needed.
What Types of Chimney Liner Damage Do We Look For?
When we perform annual inspections, we snake a camera up into the chimney so we can see the flue liner, bottom to top. So what are we looking for?
- Cracks in the flue liner
- Gaps between flue tiles
- Flaking or spalling areas on the flue liner walls
- Mortar joint erosion or damage
In other words, we’re looking for any damage that could be compromising safety and efficiency. And if we do find damage, the good news is we have the very best options for repair and restoration.
Ready to work with our crew for it all? Call now or book your spot online.
How Do You Fix A Damaged Flue Liner?
Here at Ashbusters Chimney Service of Knoxville, we’re happy to offer our clients two great relining options:
- Repair and restore the liner with HeatShield® — You don’t always have to go with a whole new liner. Thanks to the revolutionary HeatShield® system, we can use a Cerfractory flue sealant to repair and resurface damaged terra cotta liners. That means all gaps, cracks, and holes will be filled and all rough surfaces will be smoothed and insulated. No tear-out, no rebuild, no relining.
- Reline with a stainless steel liner — If your liner can’t be repaired with HeatShield®, we’ll recommend relining with a stainless steel liner. Stainless steel liners are safe for use with all fuel types, which means it doesn’t matter if you have a wood-burning fireplace, a gas insert, or something else. And when professionally installed and maintained, stainless steel liners come with a lifetime warranty, which means you won’t have to worry about needing another liner any time soon.
Are Flue Liners & Chimney Liners the Same Thing?
Language is confusing, and chimney terminology can be especially confusing if you aren’t familiar with the industry. The terms “chimney liner” and “flue liner” are used interchangeably, and yes – they are in fact the same thing.
What Are Common Signs of a Damaged Flue Liner?
Common signs of a damaged flue liner in a chimney can vary depending on the type of liner and the specific issue. Not to mention, because of its location, it can be difficult for most homeowners to judge the condition of their flue liner.
However, some of the most common signs that point to a damaged flue liner are:
- Visible Cracks or Gaps: Even though cracks and gaps seem like minor inconveniences, they can quickly escalate into major safety concerns. Ignoring these small imperfections can lead to significant damage and increase the risk of dangerous smoke and gases entering into your living space.
- Efficiency Issues: Have you noticed an increase in your utility bills even though you’re not using your fireplace as much as you always have? Instead of warming your home, that damaged flue liner could be allowing heat to escape through the chimney.
- Staining or Moisture Damage: Stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney may point to a water leak, which can also be caused by a damaged liner. Anytime you suspect water damage, you must act quickly, as water damage doesn’t just affect the chimney – it will continue to spread to all accessible parts of your home, causing serious structural damage.
- Visible Deterioration: Flaking, spalling, or eroded mortar joints on the interior of your chimney is never a good sign. While it is common for liners to age and show some wear and tear, this kind of deterioration requires prompt attention.
- Rust or Corrosion: Stainless steel liners that have suffered the consequences of water intrusion are at risk of rust and corrosion. That’s why regular inspections and maintenance are important in order to not only help identify and address these issues, but to (ideally) avoid them altogether.
If you spot damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today. You can call or book online now – we look forward to hearing from you!
Is a Chimney Liner Required for a Wood Stove?
There isn’t a law that states all fireplaces and stoves require a chimney liner. However, they are required in new construction. So, if you just bought a house with a stove that wasn’t originally built with a liner, it is recommended that you have a reputable chimney technician come out for an inspection and chimney sweep.
We consider chimney liners an important component for your wood stove, and all fireplaces for that matter, for several reasons, including:
- Safety: Wood stoves produce high temperatures and can emit dangerous byproducts that can’t be avoided, such as creosote. By having a properly installed chimney liner, it is able to help contain and safely vent those byproducts, reducing your risk of experiencing a chimney fire.
- Efficiency: Did you know flue liners come in different sizes? Choosing the right size for your chimney improves your stove’s performance, helps maintain the right draft, minimizes heat loss, and reduces the risk of creosote buildup and chimney fires.
- Protection: Chimneys were built to withstand exposure to the high temps of your fireplace fires. Your firebox, sure, but your chimney? That’ll break down if there isn’t a protective barrier – i.e. a chimney liner – installed.
Relining & Resurfacing Is Simple & Stress Free With Ashbusters Chimney Service Of Knoxville
Is your chimney liner damaged, unsafe, and inefficient? Schedule a level 2 inspection with a CSIA-certified chimney professional so you know for sure what’s going on and what needs to be done.
Here at Ashbusters Chimney Service of Knoxville, our licensed and insured pros have the tools and techniques needed to provide you with a thorough and accurate assessment of your chimney liner’s condition. We’ll let you know if repairs are needed and make recommendations based on your unique situation.
Ready to schedule? Simply call 865-448-4815 or request an appointment online today. We’re happy to help!
Relining your chimney with HeatShield® may be the answer to your chimney repair problems. Discuss it with us to get the information you need.