Does My Chimney Really Need To Be Lined?

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Yes! Your chimney should have some sort of liner application. Chimney liners may not seem important but they play a large role in ensuring your chimney system is fully operational and running as it should. Chimney liners help contain and/or vent the smoke, gas, and other byproducts that are created when using your fireplace and/or furnace.  In years past, terracotta clay flue tiles were very popular within the industry and at the time were fantastic options for lining chimney. Although terracotta clay tiles were once a great choice, they are more susceptible to deterioration. When those clay tiles begin to erode and weaken - that is when your chimney system will begin taking on unwanted stress and problems can begin to arise.

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For instance, if your clay tile is cracked and split, the broken pieces of tile can fall into the fireplace damaging the firebox. The issues don't just stop with the falling debris. Those cracks within the flue are now allowing gases, smoke, and heat to enter the masonry structure surround the flue. These gases and extreme heat can weaken the chimney structure itself, potentially leading to chimney fires, chimney rebuilds (that can be quite costly!), and potential noxious fumes (such as carbon monoxide) coming back into the home.