We Keep Milwaukee Safer With Expert Chimney Relining Services

The chimney liner is the clay or metal interior of your chimney system. It’s what takes the smoke and byproducts of combustion from the fireplace and ushers it up and out of the home. Unfortunately, as strong and durable as these liners are made to be, they can become damaged over time. As a result of moisture, heat, and creosote buildup, they might develop cracks and gaps, flake and erode, or – if they’re metal – they may rust and corrode.

If your chimney liner is damaged, you might notice a few different issues:

  • Poor draft
  • Smoky fireplace
  • Poor fireplace performance

But liner damage isn’t always obvious. And the problem is: it’s highly risky to use your fireplace with a damaged liner.

Can You Use Your Fireplace if Your Chimney Liner Is Cracked or Damaged?

We often get asked, “Can I use my fireplace if my chimney liner is cracked or damaged?” – and the answer is No, you shouldn’t take the risk. The reason being that when you have holes, cracks, gaps, or thinner areas in the liner, the liner simply won’t provide the level of protection it should against heat transfer, house fire, and carbon monoxide.

These cracks and gaps can allow heat from the fire, stray sparks, and hot ash to meet with nearby framing and walls. Over time, the wood will dry out and a fire could break out in the home.

The good news is: If you’re keeping up with annual chimney inspections as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) recommend, you’ll know if you have liner damage. That way, you can take the necessary steps to fix the issue and start enjoying a safer, more efficient fireplace again.

How Do You Know if Your Chimney Liner Is Damaged & What Can You Do to Fix It?

If it’s been a while since you had your chimney system thoroughly inspected and you suspect you may have liner damage, the first thing you’ll want to do is schedule an inspection. Our team will look at every readily accessible portion of your system, even using a camera to get a close-up look at your flue liner.

If we find damage, what can you do?  You’ve got two great options for repairing and restoring your chimney:

#1 HeatShield®

One liner restoration option we’re so proud to offer our clients in Milwaukee and the neighboring areas is HeatShield®. HeatShield® is a system that uses a cerfractory flue sealant product to repair and resurface clay tile liners. Whether you’ve got a couple of cracks and gaps here and there or your entire flue needs to be resurfaced, HeatShield® can do the job. And the best part is, you won’t have to have your old flue liner torn out. Learn more about this system right here.

#2 Stainless Steel Liner

Another great option we’re proud to offer is stainless steel. Stainless steel liners are incredibly durable and can be used to reline chimneys, regardless of fuel type. That means whether you burn wood or gas, it doesn’t matter – a stainless steel liner can take the heat and punishment of the fuel. More great news when you go with this option: The stainless steel liners we offer carry a lifetime warranty when professionally installed and maintained, which means you can invest once and enjoy the benefits for life.

Reline Right With Ashbusters Chimney of Milwaukee

Think it might be time for a reline or chimney liner repair? Want to know for sure? Schedule an inspection with the CSIA-certified chimney pros here at Ashbusters. Simply call 414-626-5636 or reach out to us online and we’ll get someone out to your home ASAP.

For the professional, friendly chimney care you want, need, and deserve – call Ashbusters!

 

One of the most common and important chimney repairs is fixing chimney leaks, so ask us for more information today.