What are the Best Flue and Chimney Systems?

Most are aware that there are basically three types of chimney flue liners to help vent gases and smoke out of your home. But is there such a thing as one of those being the “best”? You can look over the statistics and make a decision for yourself.

• Chimneys and their flue systems have to remain clean in order to carry the toxic gases and heat up and out of the home safely. However as time goes by the byproducts from this process will have an effect on the flue of the chimney as well. If you are having it inspected regularly it will last you for a very long time. If not, there is the possibility that you will one day have to replace the flue or at least repair it.


• One common reason to have to reline a chimney is that it may not have been built correctly in the first place. Primarily we are talking about not having a flue liner to begin with. Even today some builders do not follow the recommended practice of installing flues in chimneys.


• Generally you will have three choices when you reline your chimney. The first will be to re-do the flue with new clay tiles. The second would be to reinforce with poured-cement liners. Last would be reline with new metal flue liners. They all three have limitations and problems. Your choice should be based on your situation and the types of heat coming through the flue.


• When it all comes to a head there is no simple way to state that one flue system is better than the other two. There are many factors which must be taken into account including your old system and what shape it is in. The costs on all three are really not that far apart and they all will have approximately the same lifespan. It will be best to bring in someone who knows what they are doing and let them advise you on the best course of action.