As almost any homeowner will tell you, there are certain home improvement and maintenance requirements every home will need over the course of owning a home.
If your home has appliances like a fireplace and chimney, it is imperative to keep these in working order and to maintain them often to avoid not only costly repairs, but also potentially dangerous situations in your home.
Your chimney may require relining at some point.
This type of repair is often considered the most practical way to repair and maintain a chimney because it is the most affordable.
As your house ages, it may settle into its foundation, and this can cause subtle chimney damage that can go unnoticed.
Other things that can cause chimney damage include lighting strikes, hurricanes (and other severe weather), as well as a chimney fire.
Older chimneys may not have been properly lined, or lined at all.
In other cases, liners may have deteriorated and are need of replacement or repair.
If you have experienced harsh weather, or your home has been struck by lighting, you should consider relining.
Also, if you have an older chimney you should have a professional inspector come examine the appliance to determine if you need it relined.
If you suspect creosote or other chemical deposits, or if you smell something unusual coming from your fireplace you should also call a professional to determine if it needs to be relined.
Liners can alleviate creosote build-up, but they can also prevent excessive build-up, making them an important investment in your home.
Another reason to reline is if you are installing a new appliance, such as a gas fireplace in your home.
There are different types of liners you can use on your appliances, all of which serve a specific function.
Stainless steel is installed using a rounded liner.
These liners can be flexible or immobile.
This type of material is typically used for homes with woodstoves, and is also used in homes that have a furnace.
Cast-in-place liners install with a rounded frame, or bladder.
Then casting is poured around the frame to secure it in to place.
Once it is settled, the frame is removed to reveal a new flue inside the chimney.
If you own a fireplace or certain types of furnaces this type of liner is recommended.
Cast-in-place liners are also used for older chimneys because of the support the sturdy cast can provide.
Aluminum, similar to steel, is only used for homes using specific types of gas appliances.
Flue tiles are also used, but usually only in newer homes with fairly modern appliances.
Relining is a necessary part of owning a chimney.
Have a professional inspect your chimney to determine whether or not you need to reline.
If you do need to reline, your chimney repair company will be able to recommend the proper type of liner for your home, and for your budget.
Don't let affordable home maintenance repairs get away from you.
Hire a professional to keep your home safe and avoid costly repairs down the road.