Having your chimney lined has many different short and long term benefits! As well as eliminating leaks and causing less particle emissions and deposits, your chimney becomes easier to maintain as there is improved up-draught, performance and overall efficiency.
Since 1965 building regulations have specified that new chimneys should be lined and now most stove manufacturers list it as a requirement. If an old chimney is to be reinstated, a pressure test is needed to check on feasibility. If the chimney has failed a pressure test the flue must be lined. There are different methods available, the best option will mainly depend on two factors – the appliance and construction of the original flue.
Stoves or closed appliances
The most common lining method for a stove or closed appliance is stainless steel. With the use of a stove pipe/ adapter, a closed appliance can be connected direct onto a steel liner, thus making a smooth passage for the gasses to travel. Closed appliances also require a smaller diameter flue, an appropriate sized liner can usually be passed down the original brick flue – we recommend this is checked first with a camera inspection.
In our opinion it is always better for performance and efficiency to line a chimney that is serving a stove or closed appliance. For our steel liners we use Schiedel products. These are recognised as being one of the best on the market and we will not compromise on quality or safety by using cheap alternatives.
Open fires
Open fires will require a larger flue diameter. In many cases this makes lining the chimney in steel very difficult. The original flue is likely to have bends which would obstruct a liner. In this case it would be necessary to make a hole in the chimney breast to feed the liner round.
Popular methods for lining an open appliance are Eldfast, Thermocrete and Furanflex. These techniques can repair your chimney without the need to remove the fireplace or make holes in the chimney breast. We do not specialise in these methods, but we can advise when these will be the best solution and recommend local companies.
It’s important to remember that all lining methods have a life expectancy. It can be severely reduced by burning the wrong fuels and using it incorrectly.
Keep your household safe by ensuring your chimneys are properly lined in accordance with current regulations.
If you have an older property, the chimneys are made up of lime and mortar and could be porous or leaky. A huge number of chimneys in the UK are over 100 years old. Years of heavy usage, sweeping and two world wars can take its toll.
Can we help you?
We are associates of the national chimney sweep and can provide flue lining for residential and commercial properties in London, Surrey and some surrounding bordering counties – get in contact for a quote today!