Chimney Liner Repair
A cracked or open flue liner lets heat and gases reach the masonry and the house. Whether it can be repaired depends on how far the damage goes, and finding that out is the first step.
What liner damage looks like
- Cracked, broken or missing clay tiles
- Open joints between tiles, with gaps or missing mortar
- Flaking, rust or holes in a metal liner
- Deposits or staining that has soaked through the masonry
- Smoke or odor entering the house
- Damage found after a chimney fire
Most of it is not visible from the room. The only way to know is to look inside the flue, which is why liner problems usually come out of a Level 2 inspection.
Repair, resurface or replace
| Condition | Usual route |
|---|---|
| Small cracks and open joints in a flue that is otherwise sound | Repair by resurfacing the flue. See HeatShield flue repair. |
| A few damaged tiles in an otherwise sound flue | Depends on access and extent. We explain what is possible. |
| Extensive cracking or collapsed tile | Replace the liner |
| Flue that is the wrong size for the appliance | A new, correctly sized liner. See installation. |
We are direct about this. If a repair would not be dependable, we say so instead of offering one.
Why it matters
The liner contains the exhaust, protects the surrounding masonry and framing from heat and corrosion, and gives the appliance a flue of the right size. A damaged liner does none of those jobs well. Over time, heat and gases can reach combustible parts of the house, and moisture and acids attack the masonry. Having it repaired is a safety matter, not only a maintenance one.
If you think there has been a chimney fire, or you notice smoke or fumes in the house, stop using the appliance until the chimney has been inspected.
What the work involves
How a liner repair goes
- InspectWe examine the flue and find where it is damaged.
- ExplainWe tell you how much damage there is and what it means.
- ChooseWe lay out the repair and replacement options.
- CompleteThe work is done and the flue is checked.
Related services
Chimney Liners
The types of liner and how to choose.
Learn moreHeatShield Flue Repair
A resurfacing option.
Learn moreLevel 2 Chimney Inspection
See inside the flue.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a cracked clay liner be repaired?
Sometimes. Minor cracks and open joints may be resurfaced. Extensive damage usually means a new liner.
How do I know the liner is damaged?
Usually only by looking inside the flue. Smoke or odor entering the house, or a chimney fire, are warning signs.
Is a damaged liner an emergency?
It can be a safety issue. Stop using the appliance until it has been checked.
Does every chimney have a liner?
Not always. Older chimneys sometimes have none, and that is a finding we explain.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.