Chimney Services
Chimney relining, step by step
Every liner is sized to the appliance it serves, and the full system is priced in writing first.
Cleaning before the liner goes in
One manufacturer asks for the chimney and smoke chamber to be swept clean of soot and creosote, glazed deposits included, before its liner is installed. Deposits left behind the new liner can still smoke or smell.
We clean the passage as part of the relining work, or ahead of it when the deposits are heavy. The cleaning is priced in the estimate, and anything the cleaning reveals about the old lining is explained before installation continues. Cleaning also lets the route test run through a clear passage, which gives a truer answer about whether the chosen liner will pass.
Old tiles in the way of a new liner
Damaged clay tile that blocks the route may need to be broken out so the new liner can pass. One maker describes chipping damaged tile flush and keeping the broken pieces out of the flue, while sound tile that only protrudes may stay.
We explain in advance whether tile removal is expected, how debris will be collected and how the room will be protected. Tile removal appears in the estimate when the route test shows it is needed. Only the tile that has to go is removed, and sound tile left in place keeps its role around the new liner.
Building permits and local officials
One liner maker's instructions note that permits may be required and that local building and fire officials have the final say on an installation. Requirements depend on the project and the jurisdiction.
If we expect a permit question to arise, you hear it early, and we never present the job as exempt without checking. Any permit step is part of the plan we explain before the work is scheduled. Any conditions an official sets become part of the plan, and the schedule allows for them.
Protecting the room during relining
Relining involves work at the roof and at the fireplace, with debris coming down the flue. Furniture and rugs near the fireplace are covered, and the hearth area is protected before work begins.
We explain how long the work area will be in use and what you should move beforehand. At the end, the fireplace area is cleaned and the installed system is shown to you before we leave. Pets and children are kept clear of the work area while the flue is open.
