Chimney relining is done by installing a liner, typically made of metal pipe, inside of an existing chimney. This new liner prevents fire from occurring from a broken or cracked chimney tile or flue. Chimney relining is also popular when converting an obsolete chimney to a more modern furnace, such as gas-powered version. This allows the homeowner to retain the elegance of the chimney while enjoying the safety of a modern metal stove pipe.
In many older homes, the chimneys are as old as the house. This creates problems due to the constant heating and cooling of the chimney flues. Cracks can arise that can lead to fire when not addressed. Chimney relining removes the threat of fire from an old chimney by placing a modern metal chimney inside of the old masonry chimney. This method is typically much less expensive than repairing the chimney through masonry work.
A contractor can measure the chimney and decide which size chimney relining material to use. In most cases, chimney relining pipe will consist of several layers of metal pipe. This layering of the pipe allows air to circulate around the pipe cooling the outer layer of pipe. This aids in the prevention of chimney fires as well as aids in the drafting of the chimney to expel all smoke or gas fumes.
Most chimney problems are discovered by a chimney sweep. A chimney sweep is a person who climbs up onto the roof of a building and cleans the chimney by pushing a selection of brushes down through the chimney. Once clean, the chimney sweep will inspect the chimney for problems, such as cracked linings, and report the findings to the homeowner. It is extremely important to have any chimney inspected prior to using it, especially in the case of a new homeowner who does not know the history and service record of the chimney.
Chimney fires are a major factor of house fires. In many cases of chimney fires, simply installing a chimney relining kit would have prevented the fire. Chimney relining can be accomplished by the homeowner; however, in many cases, it must be completed by a professional installer to satisfy insurance requirements. In the case of a very old chimney, the relining itself is insurance for peace of mind for the homeowner.
Chimney relining is an economical method of retaining the look that an old chimney provides while maintaining the safety and security that a homeowner wants for their family. Ease of installation as well as safety makes chimney relining a popular choice for homeowners around the world.