Trust Coopertown for Chimney Flue Relining Services in Memphis & Surrounding Areas
A lot of the characteristics of historic fireplaces and chimneys have carried through to modern day appliances — most obviously, the classic, charming look of brick and mortar work. But we’ve also made countless steps forward in safety and efficiency.
One perfect example: While homes were once built with fireplaces that had unlined chimneys, these days, chimneys are required to have a liner installed in the flue. And that’s a very positive change because lined flues are safer, work better, and last far longer. Simply put, a chimney without a flue liner isn’t providing your home and family with the level of safety you want and expect.
For chimney relining services in the Memphis area, there’s only one team to trust – that’s us. Give the Coopertown crew a call or book online with us today.
What Does a Chimney Flue Liner Do?
Your chimney liner is an incredibly important part of your chimney system. Its main roles are to 1) protect your masonry and nearby materials from the high heat in your unit and 2) help your chimney vent harmful gases and other byproducts up and out of your home quickly. Without a flue liner, you have a much greater chance of having a chimney fire or a carbon monoxide leak.
Let’s go over all the chimney liner does:
- Improves home safety. Like we said, one of the primary functions of a flue liner is to protect the chimney structure and surrounding building materials from heat and combustion byproducts. It directs gases, smoke, fumes, and the like safely up and out of the chimney, reducing the risk of chimney fires…and protecting the home from fire hazards in the process.
- Improves draft and airflow. A properly sized and installed flue liner helps ensure air is flowing through your chimney appropriately, promoting efficiency. This helps ensure that smoke and gases are effectively vented outside, reducing the likelihood of backdrafts, downdrafts, and smoke spillage into the home.
- Protects your system from corrosion. Flue liners act as a barrier between the acidic byproducts of combustion and the interior chimney materials that make up your system. Without this safeguard in place, the masonry and metal components could face some serious corrosion and deterioration…and your home and system would suffer as a result.
- Prevents condensation and moisture issues. Flue liners help prevent condensation from forming inside the chimney by helping to maintain consistent temperatures throughout the chimney system. Condensation can lead to moisture damage, including spalling (flaking or crumbling) of bricks and mortar – and can compromise the structural integrity of the chimney.
- Improves overall heating system performance. A properly functioning flue liner ensures that all heating appliances – furnaces, boilers, wood stoves, fireplaces, etc. – operate efficiently and safely. It helps optimize combustion by providing a clear, unobstructed pathway for combustion gases to exit the home, resulting in improved appliance performance and energy efficiency.
What Do Flue Liners Look Like?
Chimney flue liners can be made of a number of different materials…
- Clay Tile: In older homes in particular, chimneys are most likely lined with clay tiles. Clay tile can be a durable material, but over time, these liners are prone to cracking and developing eroded mortar joints. When we repair a liner or reline a chimney, we’re often working with clay tile flue liners.
- Stainless Steel: Many modern chimneys have stainless steel flue liners, which are great, durable products that solve a variety of flue problems. A clay liner that’s been damaged beyond reasonable repair can be replaced with a stainless steel liner. Stainless steel liners are also practical choices if the addition of a new appliance makes a resized flue necessary for proper function. And we all know how durable stainless steel is, so you can expect a liner that will last. When installed by a certified technician, like the ones at Coopertown Services, these products include a lifetime warranty as well.
- Cast-In-place: Having a cast-in-place liner installed can be a great way to bring a chimney with a damaged flue liner back to a safe and efficient, smoke-tight state. These liners can actually make a chimney structure stronger, too. Cast-in-place liners are made of a cement-like material that is poured and cast directly in place using a former. The result is a smooth, well-lined flue.
Are There Alternatives to Chimney Relining?
Yes, chimney resurfacing offers an alternative to chimney relining by repairing or restoring the existing chimney liner or masonry, often at a lower cost and with less disruption. Some options when you work with us include…
- FireGuard: We offer chimney lining resurfacing using FireGuard, a specialized system that fills cracks and gaps in your chimney liner, protecting it from heat, acid, and water damage. With a Lifetime Transferable Warranty and Factory Guarantee, this is a great option for those looking for alternatives to relining.
- HeatShield®: Coopertown Services also installs HeatShield®, a Cerfractory sealant that can restore a damaged clay tile liner. HeatShield® works by filling in all gaps and holes, revealing a safe and smooth surface.
Wondering what all of your options are? We’re here to help. Give us a call or book online now.
What Are the Benefits of Relining My Chimney With Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is a superior material for relining your chimney for multiple reasons:
- Stainless steel chimney liners are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, rust, and damage from acidic combustion byproducts.
- Stainless steel chimney liners can withstand high temperatures and are less prone to deterioration compared to other materials, providing long-lasting protection for your chimney.
- Stainless steel chimney liners enhance the safety of your chimney system by containing heat, sparks, and combustion byproducts within the chimney.
- Stainless steel liners provide a smooth, uninterrupted pathway for smoke and gases to exit the chimney, promoting better draft efficiency.
- Stainless steel chimney liners are available in various sizes and configurations to accommodate different chimney types.
- Stainless steel chimney liners can be installed in both masonry and prefabricated chimneys, making them a versatile option for chimney relining projects.
- Stainless steel chimney liners are relatively easy to install compared to other types of liners, which can reduce labor costs and installation time.
- Stainless steel chimney liners can be installed as a flexible liner for chimneys with bends and offsets or as a rigid liner for straight chimneys, providing flexibility in installation options.
- Stainless steel chimney liners require minimal maintenance once installed, compared to other materials.
- Stainless steel chimney liners are easy to clean and maintain, helping to prolong the lifespan of your chimney system and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacements.
Overall, relining your chimney with stainless steel offers a durable, safe, and efficient solution that provides long-term protection for your chimney – and enhances the performance of your heating appliance.
Will Chimney Relining Improve Chimney Performance?
Most definitely. In fact, a well-designed and properly installed chimney liner promotes better draft efficiency by providing a smooth, uninterrupted pathway for smoke and gases to exit the chimney. This helps ensure that combustion byproducts are effectively vented outside, reducing the likelihood of backdrafts, downdrafts, and smoke spillage into your home…and getting you that heat you and your household deserve.
Chimney liners also act as a barrier between the acidic byproducts of combustion and the chimney structure, preventing corrosion and deterioration of the masonry or metal components. This helps extend the lifespan of your chimney and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements in the future.
And performance isn’t the only thing it helps with… A properly installed chimney liner significantly reduces the risk of experiencing chimney fires. Creosote, a byproduct of incomplete combustion, can accumulate inside the chimney liner over time, increasing the risk of flames spreading through the system. A properly sized and insulated chimney liner helps maintain optimal operating temperatures, reducing the formation of creosote and better containing heat, sparks, and combustion byproducts.
What Are Signs My Chimney Needs To Be Relined?
You know chimney liners play a vital role and that damaged ones need to be repaired or replaced ASAP. So…what signs can you look for that the time for a new liner has come?
- Visible Damage: If you spot any signs of damage – cracks, gaps, missing sections, etc. – throughout your chimney liner, these issues can compromise its integrity and may indicate the need for relining…or, at the very least, some repair work.
- Flue Tiles in the Fireplace: Spotting some loose flue tiles in your firebox? This means that your liner is deteriorating and may need to be replaced or resurfaced.
- Excessive Creosote Buildup: Significant amounts of creosote inside the chimney may be a sign that the chimney liner is not functioning properly. Creosote buildup increases the risk of chimney fires and can indicate a need for relining.
- Cracks or Damage to Masonry: Inspect the exterior of your chimney for signs of cracking, spalling (flaking or crumbling), or other damage to the masonry. These issues can indicate that moisture is penetrating the chimney structure – and your liner could be damaged as well.
- Smoke or Odors Entering the Home: If you notice smoke or unpleasant odors inside your home, it could be that your liner isn’t keeping them effectively contained. Fumes and gases in your living space are a serious safety concern and should be addressed promptly.
- Difficulty Starting Fires: If you experience difficulty starting fires – or poor draft in the fireplace or stove, that is – it may be due to a blocked or damaged chimney liner. Relining the chimney can help restore proper airflow and improve performance.
- Your Chimney Is Old: If your chimney is several decades old and has never been relined, it may be due for an inspection to assess the condition of the liner. In fact, you should be getting an inspection every year, during which your chimney tech can check your liner over.
Over time, chimney liners can deteriorate due to exposure to heat, moisture, and acidic byproducts of combustion. If you observe any of these signs, it’s essential to stop putting your fireplace to use, and have your chimney inspected by a qualified chimney professional.
At Coopertown, we’re here and happy to help. Give us a call or schedule your spot with us through our online form today.
Is Chimney Relining a DIY Project?
Definitely not. In fact, most chimney-related tasks shouldn’t be done by even the most handy homeowner. As chimney technicians, we train and study for all of the work we do… Why? Because failing to get the job done right can result in serious hazards for the homeowners we serve.
Remember…you’re dealing with things like fire, smoke, carbon monoxide, and more inside of your home. Cutting corners and DIY attempts simply aren’t an option – it’s not worth the risk.
So, is chimney relining something you can DIY? No – chimney relining is not typically a DIY project and is best left to trained professionals with experience in chimney repair and installation.
Need more convincing?
- DIY chimney relining can lead to injuries. Working on a chimney involves working at heights and dealing with potentially hazardous materials such as chimney liners and mortar. Professionals are trained in safety protocols and have the necessary equipment to work safely at heights and protect themselves from hazards.
- DIY chimney relining can yield poor results. Chimney relining requires specialized knowledge of chimney construction, building codes, and installation techniques. Professionals understand the complexities involved in properly sizing and installing chimney liners to ensure optimal performance and safety.
- DIY chimney relining requires specialized tools and equipment. Chimney relining often requires specialized tools and equipment such as scaffolding, ladders, rotary drills, and chimney liners. Professionals have access to these tools and know how to use them effectively to complete the job correctly.
- DIY chimney relining can result in code violations. Building codes and regulations govern chimney construction and repair to ensure safety and compliance with industry standards. Professionals are familiar with local building codes and can ensure that the relining work meets regulatory requirements.
All in all, hiring a professional ensures that the chimney relining is done correctly the first time, minimizing the risk of mistakes or improper installation that could compromise chimney performance or safety. Professionals also typically offer warranties on their workmanship, providing additional peace of mind.
And while there are DIY chimney repair kits available for minor repairs, relining a chimney is a complex process that is best left to professionals. Attempting to reline a chimney without the necessary expertise and equipment can lead to improper installation, safety hazards, and costly damage to the chimney or surrounding structure.
Trust Us for Your Chimney Relining & Repair Needs in Memphis & Beyond
Ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney with Coopertown Services in Memphis and the surrounding areas. Trust our experienced team for expert chimney flue relining services. Don’t compromise on safety—If your chimney needs relining or repair, call Coopertown Services at 901-358-7777, or click here!
We’re happy to report that our chimney and fireplace services include damper repair and installation.