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Relining: a new flue inside the old chimney
The liner is the inner channel that carries smoke and combustion gases up and out. Most mid-century chimneys here have clay tile liners, and after sixty-plus years many of those tiles are cracked, shifted at the joints, or missing mortar between sections. A compromised liner leaks heat and gases into the chimney structure and, in the worst case, toward the framing around the chimney chase.
When relining is the answer
Three situations call for it. Cracked or gapped clay tiles found during a camera inspection. The aftermath of a flue fire, which routinely fractures tiles even when the fire seemed minor from the living room. And appliance changes: a new gas insert or furnace flue has different sizing and condensation behavior than an open wood fireplace, and the old clay flue is usually the wrong size for it, which kills draft and accelerates corrosion.
What we install
Continuous stainless steel liners sized to the appliance, insulated where the installation calls for it. Insulation keeps flue gases hot, which improves draft and cuts creosote condensation, a meaningful upgrade in a climate where flues start cold and damp most of the year. Every reline ends with a documented camera pass so you have the before and after on record.
Common questions
How do I know if my liner is damaged?
You mostly cannot from the living room, which is the problem. A camera inspection shows the full flue interior. Book one after any flue fire, before buying a home with a fireplace, or if the chimney has never been scoped.
Does a gas insert need a new liner?
Almost always. Gas appliances need a correctly sized flue for draft and condensation control, and the manufacturer's installation specs typically require a dedicated liner. The old open-fireplace flue is the wrong tool for it.
How long does a stainless liner last?
Quality stainless liners carry long manufacturer warranties and routinely outlast the appliances they serve. Annual inspection keeps the warranty intact and catches problems while they are small.