Chimney Relining: Restore Safety & Performance to Your Chimney

Over time, chimney liners—whether clay tile or metal—can crack due to thermal stress, moisture intrusion, or age. A damaged liner exposes combustible framing, masonry, and insulation to extreme heat, increasing the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide leaks.

Properly relining your chimney restores a smooth, insulated passage for smoke and gases. This venting system upgrade minimizes creosote buildup, enhances draft, and prevents flue gas condensation—protecting both your home and indoor air quality.

Many insurance companies and local building codes mandate a sound liner. If your liner shows signs of deterioration—rust, large gaps, or spalling—you need chimney relining before warranty coverage is voided or before selling your home.

• Stainless Steel Chimney Liners
  Durable, corrosion‐resistant, and ideal for wood, gas, or pellet-burning appliances. Available in single‐wall or insulated double‐wall configurations.
• Ceramic (Clay) Chimney Liners
  Traditional clay liners resist high heat but are prone to cracking with temperature changes. Often used in older masonry chimneys but require careful inspection.
• Cast‐in‐Place Chimney Liners
  A poured, refractory concrete liner formed directly inside the existing flue. Ideal for irregularly shaped or deteriorated masonry chimneys—provides a seamless, code‐compliant barrier.
• Aluminum or High‐Temp Polymer Liners
  Used exclusively for gas appliances and vented gas fireplaces. Lightweight and cost-effective, but not suitable for wood‐burning appliances.
• Flex‐Linings (Flexible Metal Liners)
  Highly maneuverable stainless steel liners for chimneys with offsets. Insulated flex liners improve draft and reduce condensation.

1. Initial Inspection & Measurement: A CSIA‐certified technician examines the existing flue, measures diameter/height, and assesses masonry condition. This determines the best liner type—stainless steel, cast‐in-place, or flex‐liner.

2. Cleaning & Preparation: Before relining, the chimney is swept to remove creosote, soot, and debris. The technician confirms there are no hidden obstructions or significant structural cracks that need repair first.

3. Liner Installation: • Stainless Steel Flex Liner: Lowered from the top, guided through offsets using specialized rods, and anchored at the chimney crown.
• Cast‐in‐Place Liner: A refractory mixture is poured or pumped in to form a smooth, monolithic lining. Requires venting and curing time.
• Ceramic (Clay) Tile Replacement: Damaged tiles are removed, replaced with new pre-cast sections, and mortar joints are sealed.

4. Insulating & Sealing: For double‐wall stainless liners, insulation (ceramic wool) is added around the liner for optimal heat retention and condensation control. All joints and connections are sealed with high‐temperature sealant.

5. Chimney Cap & Flashing Re‐Assembly: The chimney cap and top plate are reinstalled or upgraded. Flashing is inspected/repaired to ensure a waterproof seal around the chimney crown.

6. Final Inspection & Draft Test: The technician performs a draft test, checks for proper smoke flow, and issues a written report confirming the new liner meets code requirements. Any recommended repairs or maintenance items are noted.

Visible Cracks or Deterioration: If you notice cracks in clay tiles, spalling bricks, or crumbling mortar joints—your liner is likely compromised.

Rust or Corrosion on Metal Liners: Rust flakes or holes indicate a stainless steel liner has degraded. Leaks in a metal liner can allow flue gases to escape into walls.

Poor Draft & Smoke Backflow: Difficulty keeping a fire alive, excessive smoke in the room, or intermittent puffing suggest leaks or obstructions in the liner.

Excessive Creosote Accumulation: Deep creosote (Level 3) deposits reveal that the flue surface is rough and porous—often a sign the liner is deteriorating.

Noticeable Debris or Debris Falling: If pieces of tile, brick, or insulation fall into the firebox during sweeping, it’s time for a new flue liner.

Code Compliance & Warranty: A certified technician ensures your new liner meets local building codes and often provides a manufacturer warranty on stainless steel or cast‐in-place systems.

Enhanced Fire Safety: Professionally installed liners eliminate gaps where heat transfer could ignite surrounding framing—protecting your home from hidden fire hazards.

Improved Draft & Efficiency: A smooth, insulated liner creates optimal draft, reducing creosote formation and improving heating efficiency—saving you on fuel costs.

Longevity & Durability: High‐grade stainless steel and properly cured cast‐in‐place liners last decades, resisting corrosion and thermal shock far better than outdated clay tiles.

How long does chimney relining take?

A stainless steel flex liner installation typically takes 2–4 hours, depending on chimney height and complexity. A cast‐in‐place liner requires additional curing time, so expect 1–2 days for complete installation and setup.

Can any chimney be relined?

Most masonry chimneys can be relined, provided the structure is sound. Severely damaged or leaning chimneys may require major rebuilds before relining. A professional inspection will determine feasibility.

How often should a chimney liner be inspected?

Annually, as part of your Level 1 chimney inspection. A detailed Level 2 video scan every 3–5 years is recommended to check for hidden cracks or corrosion.

Is chimney relining covered by homeowners insurance?

Coverage varies by policy. If damage is due to a covered event (e.g., chimney fire or storm), your insurer may cover part of the cost. Regular maintenance and timely relining help minimize future insurance claims.