Stainless Chimney Liners - 7 Little Known Facts (Dec. 2013)

Stainless Chimney Liners - 7 Little Known Facts
Chimney liners have come a long way since they first debutted in the early 1900's. Sure to meet
any need, chimney liners now come in many types including stainless steel, cast-in-place, and
clay tiles. Whether you need a clay tile liner or a stainless steel one, these versions allow anyone
and everyone to find a chimney liner that meets (and exceeds) their expectations.
While many of us that have dabbled in the fireplace industry may feel like experts in the subject,
there are many surprising, little known facts about chimney liners that you may not be aware of.
In this article, we will take time to dive more deeply into the world of chimney liners to discover
7 little known facts about them.

Figure 1: Ventinox Chimney Liner Systems

Liners Make Sure the Flue is Right - Chimney liners help to ensure a correctly fitting flue is in
place. A correctly-sized flue allows for the optimum in heat efficiency as well as preventing
creosote from building within the walls of the unit.
Cast-in-place is Permanent - If choosing a cast-in-place liner, homeowners can enjoy a
permanent solution for all their chimney liner needs. These lightweight liners constructed of
cement-like materials are cast into the flue to create a seamless fit.
Clay Is Uneven - Clay tiles have been a popular choice in chimney liners for many, many years.
The clay material is readily available and the liners are fairly inexpensive to purchase. When
working with clay though extra care must be taken to ensure the overall structure is kept safe.
These tiles allow for the uneven spreading of heat within the flue leading to cracks in its surface.
A cracked tile must be repaired before using the unit again.
They're Mandated - Although building codes can differ from state to state, many are unaware