Chimney Liner Options Part One

When you come to select your chimney liner, also known as a flue liner, there are several different things to consider and many different types of chimney liner available on the market. Knowing what to buy for your own chimney isn’t always easy and it can be a struggle to find the chimney liner for you when there are so many different models available. It’s not something you will do very often and so it’s understandable if you are not well versed in chimney liners and what the differences between them are. Here we will look at what chimney liner options you have and how to go about installing the right chimney liner for you.

So as mentioned there are many different types of chimney liner and these will depend on which of the many different types of chimney you have, its dimensions and the type of fireplace you have burning underneath. For instance wood burning fireplace inserts may be different from other forms of chimney liners. You can also get different materials for your actual chimney liners for instance stainless steel chimney liners.

Getting to know Flexible Chimney Liners

When fitting a chimney liner it is imperative that you use flexible chimney liner kits. Many chimneys are not straight, some often have a kink in them and because of this you need a liner that will adapt to the shape of the chimney. Inside the chimney you might find that the masonry is not straight and even, especially in older properties so again the flexibility to get round these problems is vital.

These liners come in a variety of widths, to suit any chimney stack, and they are either single or twin skinned. The single skin liners are only suitable for oil or gas heating systems, but the duel skinned is more versatile and can be used for those systems as well as multi-fuel, and solid fuel burning.

The basic liner kits available typically include: a top plate for the chimney; a rain cap; appliance connectors; chimney liner warranty; installation instructions and of course the stainless steel flexible chimney liner measured to the required length.

If you are not confident in fitting something like a chimney liner then it would be advisable to contact a local supplier for a list of recommended installers. They will be experienced at fitting and be able to give you and advice needed to help maintain your chimney liner kit.

Chimney liners for multi-fuel and gas and oil heating systems

If you are looking to buy a chimney liner for your home you should be aware that there are different liners available, depending on whether you use multi-fuel heating or oil or gas heating. Both of these stainless steel chimney liners are used for lining masonry chimney stacks, the main difference being that the multi-fuel liner has a twin-skin construction whereas the oil/gas fuel liner has a single skin construction.

The multi-fuel liner is deeply corrugated on the outside skin but smooth on the inner core. This makes it easier for cleaning and there are no areas for the tar and soot to build up. This liner can be used for wood burning stoves, multi-fuel systems, open fires and can also be used for gas and oil appliances, making it a very versatile liner as you can change your heating system without worrying about changing the liner. This versatility does make it a little more expensive but you are paying for the convenience.

The oil/gas flue liner has a single skin which is deeply corrugated. This liner is only suitable for use with an oil or gas heating system and because of that tends to be a cheaper option then the multi-fuel liner. It is very important that you use the correct flue liner in order to prevent any problems occurring with your heating and chimney liner.

Just how important is a chimney liner?

If you have an open fire or a wood burner, it is very important that you keep your chimney clean. It is recommended by experts, that you have it cleaned at least once a year, if not more in certain circumstances. Chimneys that aren’t lined can be very difficult to maintain and clean because of the nature of the stone or brick they are made from.

There are many places where soot and tar can build up which are difficult to get to with brushes and other cleaning tools. If you ‘line’ your chimney with a chimney liner then the flue becomes a continuous, smooth tube with fewer surfaces for the soot or tar to condense onto. If any tar does form, it can easily slide back into the fire and be re-burnt. The liner will also prevent any smoke or harmful gases from seeping out of the cracks in your masonry.

Another advantage of lining your chimney is that the smaller, consistent diameter of the flue maintains the velocity and flow of the flue gases in the system which means that the gases will travel faster up your chimney giving them less time to deposit tar and this will automatically improve the draw of your fire, making it more efficient at heating. So for a more effective and cleaner chimney, lining is the way to go!