Family-owned chimney flue repair in Union Park

The kinds of lining the code accepts

For ordinary residential appliances, Section R1003.11.1 of the Florida residential code lists four acceptable flue lining systems. Any repair or replacement we propose has to leave your flue inside one of them.

When a proposed fix does not clearly land in one of these categories, we say so and explain what that means for using the fireplace.

• Clay flue lining complying with ASTM C315
• Listed and labeled chimney lining systems complying with UL 1777
• Factory-built chimneys, or chimney units, carrying a listing for use inside a masonry chimney
• Other approved materials that hold up against flue gases and condensate to 1,800 degrees F without corroding, eroding, softening or cracking

Offsets and the 30 degree limit

A flue does not always rise straight. The Florida residential code allows the lining to slope no more than 30 degrees from vertical, and many chimneys include an offset where the flue shifts over to reach its exit point.

Offsets make flue repair harder. Damage beyond a bend may not be visible from either end, and tools and repair products reach it less easily. We tell you where the offset is, what we could see past it and how it affects the options on the table.

Tiles cracked by an intense fire

A very hot fire in the flue, including a chimney fire, can crack clay tiles as they heat faster than they can expand evenly. The damage may not be visible from the fireplace, and the fireplace may seem to work normally afterward.

If you suspect a chimney fire, stop using the fireplace and have the flue assessed before the next fire. We look for cracked and displaced tiles, damaged joints and loose material, and we explain which sections could be seen and which remain uncertain.

What the free inspection covers on a flue call

A flue call starts with a free inspection from the firebox and smoke chamber up and from the chimney top down, as far as the flue can be seen. We also check the crown, the cap and any cleanout or appliance connection.

You get the findings and a written estimate at no charge and with no obligation. Book within 72 hours after the inspection and the estimate shows 10% off. We also ask what prompted the call, whether debris, smoke, a smell or a home inspection note, because the symptom tells us where to look most closely.