subject: Important Information On The Fireplace Chimney Liner [print this page] In terms of fireplaces, the most critical feature for your health and safety is the fireplace chimney liner. Extreme temperatures and lethal gases are formed when you light a fire in your gas or wood burning fireplace. These elements can bring about damage to your fireplace, chimney and your home, and can even cause you to become ill.
A fireplace chimney liner is a special insert that fits in your fireplace ventilation shaft. It's produced from materials like metal, clay or ceramic that protect your fireplace chimney from heat and gases. In addition, it protects the chimney walls against oxidization and heat. An overheated or damaged chimney can cause burning of any wood products in its proximity.
Studies have determined that unlined chimneys are highly unsafe. In the US, houses constructed after 1940 that have a fireplace are obligated to have a chimney liner in good condition, unbroken with no cracks.
There are basically three varieties of chimney liner:
1. The traditional material for chimney liners is clay tiles. This is a cost-effective option; it is also not hard to buy and functions perfectly well in a properly kept up chimney.
2. A metal chimney liner is usually produced from aluminum or stainless steel, and is mostly used for repairing or upgrading a chimney that's already in place. Metal liners enjoy a good safety rating and are durable and long lasting if put in correctly.
3. Finally, there's the cast-in-place liner. This is a lightweight product made from a material resembling cement. After installation in the flue, it will give a smooth, insulated route for the release of all the byproducts of a burning fire. This kind of permanent liner makes an older chimney more stable and strong, and can be used with any kind of fuel.
When installing a new liner, most folks nowadays choose stainless steel since it's much easier to install than clay tiles. You can get it in either stiff or flexible forms.
Most people select to have their new chimney liner installed by a professional. However, there are packages available that include instructions for installation, and this can save you some cash. Normally, all the necessary attachments and hardware are included in these packages to make certain the installation goes easily.
If your older house has a fireplace, it is essential to get it checked out by a specialist to be certain it meets safety standards. If you have an old chimney that's in poor repair or not properly lined, you are putting your family's safety at risk. And since there is no shortage of low-priced and practical ways to solve the problem, you have no reason to shy away from this very important fireplace component.
