Does an Exposed Chimney Need To Be Lined?

Clay Tiles

• Most chimneys are lined with a layer of clay tiles. If you need to line a chimney for a wood burning fireplace, these are a good option as long as you have them inspected periodically. They crack over time and need to be repaired as they become compromised. However, if your chimney is attached to a gas furnace or fireplace instead of an old fashioned wood-burning unit, then you should look into more modern liner alternatives.

Metal Liners

• Metal liners provide the flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of chimney and combustion devices, and are suitable for both wood and gas fires. Some metal liners are like a duct, made from rigid sheet metal that is inserted into the chimney. Others are flexible and useful for when the chimney takes bends, as they can be guided around the corners. Metal ducts are the easiest to install when a chimney needs a new liner and also only reduce the available space in the chimney by a small amount. This makes them a good option for narrow chimneys.

Cement Liners

• Another option involves pouring a cement liner inside the chimney. This is often the most expensive option, but it provides a long lasting, easy to maintain and very effective chimney liner. An air filled barrier is inserted into the chimney and the cement is poured into the remaining cavity. This option is effective as a new liner, but a cement liner can also be poured over cracked tiles as long as there is enough remaining width in the chimney to accommodate the cement liner.

Relining

• If your chimney did have a liner at one point in time but it has failed, you need to consider replacing or repairing it. A liner is essential for an effective and safe chimney. The lining protects flammable components of the house from becoming dangerously hot, as well as protecting the material of the chimney itself. If an old lining is cracked or degraded, you should consider repairing or replacing it.