Somerset County, New Jersey
Chimney Liners for Inserts and Stoves in Bernards Township, NJ
Bernards Township's housing is mostly owner-occupied and built since the 1980s. A new stove or insert is the most common reason an existing flue needs a liner.
Bernards Township, in Somerset County, is about 55% detached houses and 83% owner-occupied. The median build year is 1987, only about 6% of homes predate 1950, and the ACS median home value is about $815,000. A good share of the housing is attached.
This page is about one change that sends many people to a chimney professional: adding a wood stove or fireplace insert to a flue that served an open fireplace.
An open fireplace and an insert are different appliances, and the chimney that suited one may not suit the other.
What we look at
What changes with an insert or stove
Flue size
An insert has a much smaller flue outlet than the old open fireplace. The old flue is too large and cools too quickly.
Liner
A stainless steel liner connects the appliance to the top of the chimney.
Insulation
Many installs insulate the liner to keep the exhaust warm, which reduces deposits.
Manufacturer's instructions
The appliance maker specifies the flue connection. These are followed, not guessed.
Learn
Why a liner goes with an insert
An oversized flue cools the exhaust of a stove or insert, and cooler exhaust condenses more creosote. A liner sized to the appliance keeps exhaust moving and warm, and it separates the exhaust from the old flue, which might be cracked. Most manufacturers specify a liner for inserts, and the install must follow their instructions.
The liner also gives you a continuous, cleanable path from the appliance to the top. See chimney liners, wood stove or insert liner and liner sizing basics. Our liner work includes Clinton Township.
The old fireplace flue was sized for an open fire. A stove or insert needs a flue sized for it.
Misconceptions
"The old flue will do."
It may, but the manufacturer's instructions decide.
"A bigger flue is safer."
An oversized flue cools exhaust and builds deposits.
Symptoms
| Symptom | Possible cause | Next step |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy deposits on a stove or insert flue | Oversized flue, wet wood | Sweep and liner review |
| Smoke leaks around the insert | Poor connection | Inspection |
| Fire slow to start and draws poorly | Cold, oversized flue | Liner |
| Rust or flaking inside the chimney | Corrosion from condensation | Inspect flue |
Housing profile
What the housing mix means in Bernards Township
Housing is mostly owner-occupied and built since the 1980s, with a good share attached. Where a stove or insert is added, the liner is the question, and in an attached home the association may need to approve work on a shared stack.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Does every insert need a liner?
Most manufacturers say so. Follow the instructions for your appliance.
Can the old fireplace damper stay?
Often, the damper is removed or blocked open during install. We confirm at inspection.
How often is a stove flue swept?
More often than an open fireplace in many cases. See how often to sweep.
Service areas
Other areas we serve
Chimney Academy
Guides that go with this page
Questions about your chimney in Bernards Township?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.