Why Would My Chimney Need To Be Relined?
The liner of the chimney is designed to contain the heat and byproducts of fire and to encourage them to quickly and safely exit the chimney. Not only does the liner play an important role in the safety of the entire system, it also plays an important part in the system’s overall efficiency.
If a clay liner is cracking or crumbling, it can allow dangerous gases and high heats to enter the walls and air supply of the home. The same thing can happen when a metal liner is rusting or deteriorating. These damaged liners can lead to house fires, smoke problems, and carbon monoxide poisoning.
- House Fires – When a liner is riddled with cracks, gaps, or holes, heat from the fire can enter into nearby walls and cause fires within the structure of the home. A properly installed and maintained flue liner can keep this transfer of heat from becoming a concern.
- Smoke Problems – When a flue liner is lined with creosote or is crumbling or cracked, smoke and hot gases will have a much harder time making their way out of the chimney. This means that the smoke and hot gases have more time to cool and settle in the form of creosote. Creosote is highly flammable, and is a leading cause of house fires. As creosote settles, it restricts air flow even more, which will also significantly increase the chance of overheating, chimney fires, and even more creosote buildup. A damaged, creosote-filled liner can also be the source of smoke problems. Because this type of liner is not able to swiftly remove smoke from the home, smoke from the fire can actually backdraft into the home, causing health problems and smoke staining.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – A leaky liner can allow carbon monoxide (which is formed when fuel is incompletely burned) to enter the air supply of the home and pose a serious health threat. According to the National Fire Protection Association, there were over 80,000 carbon monoxide incidents reported in the year 2010. Fortunately, the number of carbon monoxide deaths continues to decline, largely thanks to the installation of carbon monoxide detectors. Without a carbon monoxide detector, this poisonous gas is virtually undetectable, and can cause organ and brain damage or death, without so much as a clue.
How Can Magic Broom Help?
Flue liners are typically constructed of clay, stainless steel, or aluminum, but not all of these materials are intended for use with all fuel types. A professional technician will be able to ensure that you are using the right flue liner for your specific appliance. He will also be able to visually inspect the inside of your flue liner for overall condition and safety.
Many older homes were constructed without flue liners, which according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), researchers have classified as “little less than criminal”. Whether you have a clay liner that needs complete repair and resurfacing, a metal liner that needs to be replaced, a flue that needs to be resized for a new appliance, or your chimney lacks a liner altogether, Magic Broom can discuss the options with you and help you make the appropriate choice for your home. Call us today at 301-843-1491!
