7 Reasons Why You Need a Chimney Liner

Chimney protruding from red roof

A chimney liner is a channel made of clay, metal, or ceramic, which is inserted inside a chimney. A chimney liner is an important element of safety in your home. Listed below are some of the reasons you must have a chimney liner installed.

1. Prevents Overheating of the Chimney and Lengthens Its Lifespan

A chimney liner protects the chimney masonry and joints from the heat of the fire. It also protects the chimney from the corrosion that can be inflicted by the acidic flue gases that emanate from the fire. By preventing overheating and corrosion, a chimney liner ensures a longer life for your chimney. A chimney that does not have a liner installed is constantly exposed to the gases, heat and smoke from the fire. Over time, these components erode the structure of the chimney. A degenerated chimney could result in gas leaks, higher chances of fire and energy losses.

2. Reduces Chances of a Fire

smoke rising to a smoke detector

A chimney liner provides a strong lining inside the chimney that forms a barrier between the fire and the chimney and its surrounding elements. Woodwork and other structures in your home can easily catch fire if they are overheated. A chimney liner is therefore vital in the prevention of chimney fires that occur as a result of overheating in the chimney.

3. Improves Energy Efficiency

A chimney liner promotes better energy efficiency, because it helps the fire to burn brighter while minimizing loss of heat. It helps in maintaining an optimal air flow within the chimney. The need for adding fuel is reduced, and as a result, you can save significant amounts of energy.

4. Makes Fireplace Maintenance Easier

Chimney liners are much easier to clean and maintain as compared to the brick and mortar of a chimney without a liner. As a result, the chimney is more efficient and clean.

5. Available in Different Materials

Clay, concrete, and metal are the different materials used in the manufacture of chimney liners. Metal chimney liners made of stainless steel or aluminum last the longest. They are impervious to problems such as cracks and heat damage, which may be seen in clay and concrete chimney liners.

6. Prevents Toxic Gases Indoors

chimney vents on a roof

A fireplace can produce deadly gases such as carbon monoxide as a result of incomplete combustion. It is very important you ensure all such toxic gases are safely routed out of your home. In the absence of a chimney liner, these gases have a high chance of leaking back indoors and causing severe health problems in the inhabitants of the household. Severe carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal. A chimney liner provides a safe outlet for the combustion gases that are produced as a result of the fire and efficiently exhausts these gases out of your home.

7. Reduces Soot and Creosote Buildup

A chimney liner effectively reduces the buildup of soot and creosote within the chimney. These substances are highly flammable and difficult to clean. Chimney liners thereby further enhance safety and simplify chimney maintenance.