New chimney liners measured and fitted in North Orange

A closer inspection comes before relining

NFPA 211 lists the relining of a flue, or replacement of flue lining, among the circumstances that call for a more thorough inspection. That means examining the accessible parts of the chimney inside and out, including areas reached through the attic, before the proposal is final.

We do that work first, so the liner is chosen for the chimney that is actually there rather than the one it appears to be from the roof. It also surfaces clearance, masonry and crown questions early, while they can still be planned into one visit instead of discovered halfway through the installation.

When clearances cannot be confirmed

Clearances are not always visible. One stainless liner's instructions state that if the proper clearances cannot be determined, the liner must be installed with an approved insulation wrap.

We would rather say that plainly than assume the framing sits where it should. If insulation is required for your chimney, the estimate says so and gives the reason in a sentence you can check. If more access would settle the question, such as an attic hatch we could not reach, we tell you that too, so you can decide which way to go.

One run, or two joined correctly

Where a single length will not do, one manufacturer allows two lengths of flexible liner to be joined with its listed connector. Improvised joints are not part of the listing.

We plan the liner as one run where the chimney allows, and use only the connectors the instructions name when it does not. A joint also has to sit where it will not catch the liner on its way down, so its position is planned from the proven route.

Questions worth asking before you approve relining

A sound relining proposal should answer each of these clearly. If one of them gets a vague answer, ask again, since each one affects how the liner performs or what the job includes.

• What finding makes the current lining unsuitable?
• Which listed product is proposed, and at what size?
• Is insulation required, or only recommended?
• What preparation happens before the liner goes in?
• Which old parts stay, and which come out?
• Which separate repairs, if any, are recommended?