The flue liner is an important part of any chimney. It lines the inside of the brickwork to help prevent heat from penetrating your home and allowing for easier chimney cleaning. However, flue liners are a relatively recent addition to chimneys. Older chimneys may have been installed without one, but the addition is easy to make. When your chimney sweep recommends it, there are times when a flue liner needs to be replacement. In this case you have a few options.
Old Flue Liners vs. New Flue Liners
The oldest flue liners come in the form of clay. However, rising temperatures can lead to cracks in the flue liner. These days, you can either choose between aluminum flue liners or stainless-steel flue liners.
There are many that lean towards aluminum because it is less expensive, and that is fine, but aluminum does come with some downsides.
When to Choose Aluminum Flue Liners
Aluminum is a great choice for gas fireplaces, but often it is not rated to withstand the heat fluctuations that can come with wood fireplaces. They can still be used, but they are not the safest option. Furthermore, aluminum flues are prone to corrosion over time. This means that while they are cheaper, you will need to replace them sooner.
When to Choose Stainless Steel Flue Liners
Stainless steel flue liners are more expensive but last longer. They are not only more resistant to corrosion, but stainless-steel liners are generally stronger than aluminum. This durability makes them more enduring to soot build-up and chimney cleanings over time.
Do you have a chimney with a flue liner that is getting up there in years? If you require a flue replacement or even just have a chimney due for its annual cleaning, we can help. Contact us today to see what Fiddler on the Roof Chimney Service can do to keep your chimney operating safely.
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