If a chimney inspection turns up a cracked flue liner — or no liner at all — you will hear the word “relining.” For owners of the older, historic homes common in Lemont, it is one of the more important repairs a chimney can need, because the liner is what keeps the heat and gases of a fire safely away from the rest of the house.
What the liner does
The flue liner is the protective inner channel that carries smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide up and out. It shields the surrounding masonry and your home’s wood framing from extreme heat, and it keeps combustion gases from leaking into your living space. When it cracks, corrodes, or was never installed, the chimney is no longer safe to use.
When Lemont chimneys need relining
Older homes here often have clay tile liners that crack from age and heat, and some very old chimneys have no liner at all. Switching from a wood fireplace to a gas insert, or installing a new furnace, can also call for a differently sized liner. A camera inspection is the only way to know for sure what condition your flue is in.
Why stainless steel
We install UL-listed stainless steel liners because they are durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for wood, gas, and oil appliances. Properly sized to your appliance and flue, a stainless liner improves draft, burns cleaner, and stands up to Lemont’s freeze-thaw winters far better than old clay tile. Learn more about our relining service, or see our work across Lemont.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my chimney needs relining?
A camera inspection is the definitive way. Signs include cracked or crumbling clay flue tiles, tile pieces in the firebox, a chimney with no liner, a corroded metal liner, or a draft or odor problem after an appliance change.
Why does a cracked liner matter?
The liner keeps a fire’s heat and carbon monoxide away from your home structure and living space. A crack lets heat reach framing, a fire risk, and lets gases seep where they should not, a health risk.
How long does a stainless liner last?
A quality UL-listed stainless liner lasts many years and often carries a long manufacturer warranty when installed and maintained correctly.
Is relining cheaper than rebuilding?
In most cases, yes. Relining restores safe operation without tearing down the masonry, so it is usually the more economical fix when the structure is sound and only the liner has failed.
Can you reline for a gas appliance?
Yes. Gas and oil appliances vent through the chimney too, and an oversized or deteriorated flue can cause condensation problems. We size and install liners for them.
How long does relining take?
Many straightforward relines are done in a day. Complex chimneys or added repairs can take longer. We give a realistic timeline after inspecting the flue.
Do I still need annual sweeps after relining?
Yes. Creosote still builds in a wood-burning flue, and an annual sweep and inspection keeps the new liner clean, safe, and within warranty.
How do I book in Lemont?
Call or text (708) 500-6096 for a camera inspection and up-front quote. We are experienced with the older masonry chimneys common in Lemont.
