Anyone that has a chimney in their home probably has some general knowledge about all the parts in the chimney and their required care. However, some may not know just how important having an annual chimney service in Lacey is. By keeping your chimney clean and inspected, you reduce the dangers of a house fire greatly. While you may be able to clean out and inspect portions of your fireplace and chimney, absolutely nothing can replace an annual inspection by a certified technician. Well trained, experienced, certified technicians from a trustworthy company provide the best chimney service Lacey has to offer.
What is a Chimney Liner
In a masonry chimney, a liner is defined as “A clay, ceramic, or metal conduit installed inside of a chimney, intended to contain the combustion products, direct them to the outside atmosphere, and protect the chimney walls from heat and corrosion” according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America. The added safety that a chimney liner adds is so great that nowadays most fire codes require a liner in any chimney. Some older homes may not have a chimney liner. If you own a home built prior to 1940, you may want to call in a professional to see if you should have a liner installed. In addition, you should check your local fire codes as it may require you to have one installed.
Why Chimney Liners are Important
It may seem unnecessary to line the one thing that is supposed to take care of guiding smoke, gases, and other by-products of fires. However, an unlined chimney is a dangerous chimney. Liners assist in protecting the chimney from corrosion and they guard flammable items in your home against heat transfer. All types of chimney liners are very effective at keeping heat inside your chimney where it belongs. You and your household are at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if you do not have a properly installed chimney liner. The liner assists in removing this dangerous gas up and out of your chimney. A well-installed chimney liner also helps to decrease the amount of creosote that builds up inside your chimney. Chimney liners improve ventilation which greatly reduces the amount of this dangerous flammable substance.
In addition to safety, chimney liners also increase the effectiveness of your fire burning appliance. Having a liner results in a better draft and reduces the amount of cold air that can enter your home through the chimney. The improved draft leads to improved fuel conservation because the fire will burn more efficiently.
Lastly, a lined chimney is easier to maintain and clean. Due to their protective quality, the maintenance of a chimney with a liner is much easier and therefore less expensive than an unlined chimney. A chimney that lacks a liner is much more likely to become damaged and thus dangerous.
Types of Chimney Liners
Metal, clay, and cement are the three most popular types of chimney liners. Not all liners are the same. As with anything, there are positives and negatives about each type.
Metal – This type of chimney liner is most commonly made of either aluminum or stainless steel. Metal liners are both safe and durable when installed properly. A metal chimney liner is easily cleaned during your annual chimney service in Lacey. Cost is the largest drawback of metal liners.
Clay – Clay chimney liners can tolerate very high temperatures during normal use without succumbing to any damage. This type of liner is usually installed during construction of the chimney. Typically, they can last around 50 years. However, it is a large undertaking and not easily accomplished when it does require repairing or replacement. Also, clay liners cannot withstand the rapid temperature rise that occurs during a chimney fire. Cracked and damaged flue tiles are the result. Creosote build-up is often the cause of chimney fires. The best way to avoid this is having a crew that is certified and experienced provide the best chimney service Lacey has to offer on an annual basis.
Cast-in-place – This is a lightweight cement liner. This is the most expensive of the three types of chimney liners. This is a permanent solution that works well to reinforce aging chimneys. The name is perfectly descriptive of the process. This type of liner is cast right in your chimney which ensures a perfect, seamless corridor for smoke and gases. They are very durable lasting up to 50 years in some cases.
Chimney Service in Lacey
A properly installed chimney liner is important. The inspection of your chimney and liner is even more crucial. Keeping your chimney and all of its parts in good working condition is the best way to prevent a chimney fire and keep your household safe. A thorough effective inspection is only possible by a well-trained professional. To ensure proper usage and the safety of your home and its inhabitants, scheduling an annual appointment for chimney service in Lacey is crucial.
Chimney Caps are Also Essential Parts for Chimney Service Lacey
Chimney caps, in addition to chimney liners, are essential components in maintaining a safe and efficient home. They are designed to cover the top of the chimney, preventing debris, animals, and moisture from entering. These caps are typically made from durable materials like stainless steel, copper, or galvanized steel, ensuring they can withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting protection.
One of the primary benefits of a chimney cap is its ability to prevent water damage. When rainwater enters an unprotected chimney, it can cause deterioration of the masonry, rusting of metal components, and even damage to the interior walls and ceilings of a home. A properly installed chimney cap effectively blocks rainwater.
In addition to protecting against water damage, chimney caps also serve as a barrier against wildlife. Birds, squirrels, and other animals often seek shelter in chimneys, which can lead to blockages, unpleasant odors, and even potential fires. A chimney cap with a built-in mesh screen prevents these intrusions.
Furthermore, chimney caps play a crucial role in improving the efficiency of a chimney. They help to reduce downdrafts, which occur when outside air flows down the chimney and into the home. Downdrafts can cause smoke and fumes to enter living spaces, posing health risks and reducing indoor air quality. By blocking these downdrafts, chimney caps promote better airflow and improve the overall performance of the chimney system.
Overall, investing in and maintaining a chimney cap with chimney service Lacey professionals is a wise decision for homeowners looking to protect their property and enhance the functionality of their chimney. Whether it’s preventing water damage, keeping out wildlife, or improving efficiency, chimney caps offer a range of benefits that contribute to a safer and more comfortable home.