Monday 30 December 2013

How Much Do You Know About Chimney Liners?

A properly working chimney liner is important to the overall health of the fireplace.  Although this functional tool isn’t very exciting to both purchase and install, homeowners should have a general knowledge of what the standard stainless steel chimney liner is. If you feel you have a good understanding of the liner but want to check or are clueless and want to learn more take my five question quiz based on the practical chimney liner.

1. What is a chimney liner?

a) A liner designed to keep toxic gases and flammable debris inside the chimney
b) A decorative chimney finish
c) A liner for the outside of the chimney to protect it from the elements
d) All of the above

2. In which decade did chimney liners start being installed into standard homes?

a) 1930’s
b) 1940’s
c) 1940’s
d) 1960’s

3. What are some signs of potential damage in the chimney?

a) A tight chimney liner
b) Cracked bricks or missing mortar
c) Stains on the brickwork
d) Both A & B
e) Both B & C

4. What are three types of chimney liners?

a) Cast-in-place, plastic, and metal
b) Stainless steel, plastic, & clay tile
c) Stainless steel, cast-in-place, & clay tile

5. Chimney liners can deteriorate and should be checked during a chimney inspection?
a) True
b) False

Answers
1. a)
A liner designed to keep toxic gases and flammable debris inside the chimney – Chimney liners are necessary to trap the flammable gases caused by wood-burning fires in the chimney flue leading them safely outside where they disperse.  If the liner was not in place, these toxic gases could leak through the chimney.  If your chimney has cracks or is damaged, this could lead to unsafe conditions in the living space.

2. b) The 1940’s –
The microwave oven, the Slinky, and chimney liners were all developed in the 1940’s.  Since this time, home construction has included the chimney liner install as standard operating procedure though you won’t typically see a stainless steel chimney liner in those homes from the 40’s.  Clay tile liners were popular back then and continue to be popular today.

3. e) Both B & C – Stains on the brickwork and cracks or missing bricks are both signs that there may be damage within the flue.  A chimney liner can only be helpful when the chimney is in proper working order.

4. c) Stainless steel, cast-in-place, & clay tile – A chimney liner can be constructed of stainless steel, clay tile, or can be casted-in-place.  The three options all have their pluses and minuses and the right on for you will be dependent on your unique home and chimney.

5. a) True -  Chimney liners can deteriorate over time and must be checked regularly.  A reputable chimney sweep will ensure your liner is checked during their inspection looking for any signs of wear.  Homes without a chimney liner can be retrofitted to include one as well, adding safety to the home.

How was your chimney liner knowledge?  Did you know as much as you thought or were you a little stumped?  Being aware of what a stainless steel chimney liner is and how it can help your home’s overall safety from chimney fires is important. If you would like to learn even more, you can research on the internet by typing “chimney liners” on the search page. 

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