In the United States, more than one-quarter of homes use a fireplace, wood stove, or a type of fuel-driven appliance as its source of heat. Undoubtedly, most homeowners aren’t thinking about a chimney fire when they are stoking the fireplace, yet they occur more often than one would think and, sadly, most of them could have been prevented. It is estimated that more than 25,000 residential fires start in the fireplace and chimney.
One of the most critical components needed for a properly functioning chimney is the chimney liner. The purpose of a chimney liner is to disperse the hot gases to the outside. Proper sizing of the chimney liner is vital because a liner that is too small can allow the gases to reenter the home resulting in smoke damage or health threats. A chimney liner that is larger than necessary allows for an excessive buildup of creosote to develop on the liner because the smoke travels too slowly up the chimney. Creosote fires account for a large majority of chimney fires.
The need for Chimney Relining Services in Carroll County MD is something that does not occur with great frequency but is usually recommended for older homes or if a chimney fire has ever occurred. The chimney lining (flue) is a round pipe in the chimney that vents smoke and gases from the chimney to the outdoors. It must endure high temperatures and requires regular cleaning, depending on use.
The most common reasons for chimney liner replacement or relining are a lack of a clay tile lining, the clay liner is damaged, or it is required due to the installation of a new furnace or stove that will vent into the chimney. An inspection by a chimney expert at website will confirm the need for repair, replacement, or relining through photographs taken inside the chimney.
The chimney liner is either clay tile, metal, or cement, all of which comply with residential building codes and should be installed by a chimney professional. At the first indication of smoke coming back into the house call a chimney expert immediately. Whenever a chimney is newly-built or reconstructed it must have a chimney liner installed. The experts at Chimney Relining Services in Carroll County MD can explain the different types of liners available, which is best for your chimney, and the pros and cons of each type.