If your home was built before the 1940s, there's a good chance your chimney was constructed without a clay tile liner. It wasn't until the 1940s that clay tile liners became a standard part of chimney construction, and today many newer homes use prefabricated metal chimneys instead of traditional brick and mortar designs. Regardless of the type of chimney you have, one thing remains true: the flue — the passage that carries smoke and combustion gases out of your home — must be free of damage to keep your household safe and prevent leaks.
When You Might Need a New Chimney Liner
If a qualified chimney professional inspects your system and finds problems, you may need to have a new chimney liner installed or your existing one repaired or replaced. Inspectors typically perform either a visual inspection or use specialized video equipment to record the inside of the flue for a closer look.
Here's what they'll look for depending on your chimney type:
- Unlined chimneys: Missing or cracked bricks and deteriorating mortar that can cause leaks.
- Clay-tile-lined chimneys: Cracked or broken tiles and missing grout.
- Metal-lined chimneys: Leaky joints or other visible damage.
If the inspector finds serious damage that can't be easily repaired, you'll face a decision: replace the existing liner or install a new one entirely.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
If you're handy with tools and understand how fireplaces and chimneys operate, you may be capable of handling most of the liner work on your own. Before you decide, though, weigh the costs of doing it yourself against the price of hiring a chimney professional.
Start by checking your local building and fire safety codes. Some areas legally require a licensed chimney specialist to perform repairs or install new liners, so this step is essential before you buy any materials.
The Reality of DIY Chimney Work
Even in areas where DIY chimney work is allowed, it's worth thinking carefully before taking it on. Installing or replacing a chimney liner is precision work performed under potentially dangerous conditions. You'll be climbing around on your roof for extended periods, working inside your fireplace and at both ends of the chimney, and possibly doing extensive masonry work — including removing and re-mortaring bricks and tiles. If you're installing a metal liner, you'll also be cutting sharp metal and making precise fittings for joints, bends, and caps.
If the installation isn't completed correctly, the flue won't function properly — and the situation could end up more dangerous than before you started.
The Bottom Line
Unless you're confident in your skills and experience, it's usually best to leave chimney repair and liner installation to a qualified expert. The safety of your home and family isn't worth the risk of a botched job.