The lining of your chimney is crucial in the safe operation of your chimney and fireplace.
A chimney liner is a clay, ceramic, or metal duct installed inside a chimney to contain the combustion materials and then vent them outside your home. The lining of your chimney is crucial in the safe operation of your chimney and fireplace. If a chimney liner is not functioning properly, it can lead to inefficient heating and venting as well as dangerous conditions for using the chimney. Here are some signs that could indicate your chimney needs to be relined.
Chimney Rust
Rust is the number one enemy of your chimney liner. If you see evidence of rust in or around your chimney, it is a clear sign that your chimney needs to be relined. Rust can ruin your mortar very quickly and has to be kept in check so that it does not get worse. You should look for a damper that is not sealing correctly, which could be due to the rust setting in. Also, cracking fuel tiles is another sign of rust in chimney liners.
Damage to the Chimney Liner
When properly maintained, chimney liners can last for years. However, if your chimney has suffered any kind of damage, it would be best to replace the lining entirely. If there is a crack or any type of damage to the lining, it will expose combustible materials near the chimney to heat. This can result in a serious house fire. Even the tiniest crack in the chimney liner can leave your home vulnerable to a dangerous accident.
Chimney Fire
Speaking of fires, if you have already experienced a chimney fire, you should have your chimney liner replaced as soon as possible. Chimney fires can cause vertical cracks to form in the mortar, rendering the chimney unsafe for use. It is recommended that you get your chimney inspected after a fire to ensure there is no hidden damage.
Damaged Mortar
If there is visible damage to the mortar surrounding your chimney, it is clear that it needs to be relined. This happens because the chimney lining is no longer working properly and not venting the smoke as a result. Or, it could be due to cracks that let the moisture settle between the mortar joints, damaging it. If the effects of water and damaged mortar are not remedied quickly, it could cause your chimney to collapse.
Call the Experts at Champion Chimneys to Fix Your Leaky Chimney Today!
Champion Chimneys, Inc. is a fully licensed, bonded, and insured chimney service company that has been serving customers in Baltimore County, Howard County, and Anne Arundel County, Maryland since 2001. Our team is trained and certified by Certified Chimney Professionals, Inc. (CCP, Inc.). Courteous service is our trademark, and our crews arrive on time in uniform, driving fully equipped trucks. We specialize in all aspects of your chimney system. Whether you need chimney and flue cleaning service or a full chimney rebuild or inspection, contact us at 443-Chimney today and let us fix all your chimney problems. Also, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.