Hi I am Robert from NorthlineExpress and today I am here to talk to you about chimney liner. Chimney liner is used to reline a masonry chimney when the flue has begun to deteriorate or when a fireplace has been installed. It is most commonly constructed of aluminum or stainless steel materials.
Single Wall vs Double Wall Chimney Liner
You can find metal flex chimney liner in two varieties: Smooth Double Wall Liner and Corrugated Single Wall Liner. The difference being that the corrugated is less expensive and is also able to be field ovalized; meaning that this liner can be squished to get it past your damper. There is also a section that comes already ovaled for use through the damper area. This section is available in both varieties. The Smooth wall is a double wall construction with an inner smooth wall and an outer corrugated wall. Because of its construction this liner is a heavy pipe and you cannot be squeezed into an oval shape for passing through the damper area, you will have to use the oval section.
Some of the benefits of the Smooth Wall Liner are that it will be easier to clean than the Single wall liner. The Single Wall Liner will have more creosote buildup due to it being corrugated and the flue temps will fluctuate more with the single wall liner. The Smooth Double Wall will stay a little bit warmer reducing your creosote and increasing your draft by about 20%. This is because of the added insulating layer of metal. The Smooth Double Wall Liner is highly recommended for efficiency over the corrugated single wall liner. However, the Corrugated Liner is a good choice if you are looking for the most economical choice. Whether you choose a single-wall chimney lining system or a smooth-wall chimney lining kit, your chimney will be secured with a thick layer of stainless steel that is specifically formulated to withstand the severe conditions that are present in a chimney flue.
Chimney Liner Components
Once you have chosen the type of liner, you will now need to choose what kit you will need. The kits come with two different adapters; the tee adapter or the stove top adapter. The tee adapter is designed for a wood stove or fireplace insert that has a rear vent. If you have a top vent or an angled vent you will want to pick the kit with the stove top adapter in it. The kits are set up so that you have all of the components that you need in one purchase. There is one additional component to consider that is normally not included in a kit and that would be a roll of insulation. Some areas and also some manufacturer’s, require you to insulate the chimney liner when using it with a wood burning fireplace or appliance. So to make sure check the owner’s manual for your appliance, check with the manufacturer of the chimney liner, and check the local code requirements for the area you live in to make sure you are in full compliance.
The process is really very simple… you pick what type of liner, you pick the kit that you want, and then you can install it yourself or hire a professional to complete the installation. Either way it is going to improve the efficiency of a deteriorating flue or provide an exhaust for a fireplace insert.
I hope you have enjoyed this section and learning about chimney liner types. If you have any further questions regarding chimney liner or its installation please give our helpful Customer Service Department a call at 1-866-667-8454. Here at NorthlineExpress, Home of the Buy and Try Satisfaction Guarantee, we are always happy to help.