Your chimney liner is the pathway that carries exhaust from your fireplace, stove, furnace, or boiler safely out of the home. When that pathway is cracked, missing, or improperly sized, heat and by‑products can escape into surrounding masonry and framing, increasing the risk of a chimney fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Cheshire Chimney Specialists installs stainless‑steel chimney liners for wood, gas, and oil appliances across Cheshire, CT, bringing older systems up to modern performance and safety expectations.
Many masonry chimneys built decades ago used clay tile liners. Time, heat shock, and moisture can crack those tiles or dissolve the mortar joints between them. We inspect the flue, document the condition with photos, and size a new liner specifically for the connected appliance. Proper sizing promotes draft, reduces condensation, and limits creosote formation. When needed, we insulate the liner to stabilize flue temperatures and further improve performance in Connecticut’s cold seasons.
Cheshire, CT and surrounding central Connecticut communities.
Improved draft, reduced creosote and condensation, better appliance efficiency, and protection for surrounding materials.
Request a QuoteRelining is indicated when the existing liner is damaged or missing, when a flue is the wrong size for the connected appliance, or when you convert fuels or install a new stove or insert. Common triggers include visible cracks in flue tiles, pieces of tile found in the firebox, chronic draft problems, smoke staining, or condensation and rust in gas or oil flues. After a chimney fire, liners often require replacement because intense heat compromises tile integrity even if damage isn’t obvious from below.
We also recommend relining when you add a new heating appliance that requires a different flue diameter or insulation profile to perform efficiently. A mismatched flue can cause sluggish draft, excessive creosote, or condensation that corrodes metal components—issues that shorten system life and raise safety concerns.
Code-aligned materials, careful sizing, and clean, efficient installation.
Flue diameter matters. Too large, and exhaust cools and slows, encouraging condensation and creosote; too small, and flow is restricted, causing smoke spillage or appliance lockouts. We size your stainless‑steel liner based on appliance output, fuel type, flue height, and configuration. For wood systems, we consider stove or fireplace opening size and chimney height; for gas and oil appliances, we follow manufacturer guidelines and venting tables to ensure proper draft and combustion.
Insulating a liner maintains higher flue temperatures, which helps exhaust rise and reduces condensation—especially important in Connecticut’s winters and where chimneys sit on exterior walls. We use wrap or pour‑in insulation as appropriate for the installation, improving draft and reducing creosote formation for wood systems while protecting surrounding masonry.
We install corrosion‑resistant stainless‑steel liners and components (caps, top plates, tees, connectors) chosen for the fuel served. Wood and coal systems call for specific alloys and thicknesses; gas and oil appliances may require different grades due to acidic condensates. All transitions are secured and sealed to prevent by‑product leakage and to keep moisture out of the chimney structure.
1) Documentation & prep: We photograph existing conditions, verify clearances and appliance connections, and protect work areas with drop cloths and containment as needed.
2) Flue prep: We sweep the flue and remove obstructions or loose tile fragments to create a clear, clean pathway.
3) Liner assembly: Sections are assembled, insulated when specified, and lowered carefully into place. We may use a winch or guide system for tall or offset chimneys.
4) Secure & seal: Top plates, caps, and appliance connectors are secured. Joints are sealed; transitions are tested for fit and draft.
5) Final verification: We test draft, check for leaks, and review the installation with you. You receive photo documentation and maintenance guidance.
Outcome: A safe, efficient venting system matched to your appliance and Connecticut’s climate—ready for years of reliable performance.
Wood: Higher flue temperatures and creosote potential demand robust liners and proper sizing. Insulation is often recommended to keep gases hot and moving, reducing condensation on cold days in Cheshire, CT.
Gas: Although gas burns cleanly, exhaust contains moisture and acids that can corrode masonry and metal. A properly sized stainless‑steel liner resists corrosion and carries exhaust effectively even at lower temperatures.
Oil: Oil appliances can produce sulfuric compounds that are tough on masonry and mild steel. We select appropriate stainless alloys and ensure joints and tees are sealed against condensate leaks.
Thermal shock often cracks clay tiles and weakens mortar. A stainless‑steel liner restores a continuous, heat‑resistant flue and helps protect surrounding materials.
Installing a new insert or high‑efficiency stove? We match liner diameter and configuration to the unit’s requirements for peak performance.
Liners shield brick and mortar from heat and by‑products, extending the life of your chimney structure and helping prevent exterior staining and interior odors.
A new liner is an investment in safety and comfort. To keep it operating at its best, schedule regular inspections and sweepings as your usage dictates. Burn only seasoned hardwood in wood systems, avoid smoldering fires, and keep air intakes clear for efficient combustion. For gas and oil appliances, schedule annual service so a technician can verify combustion, confirm draft, and check for condensate issues. We’ll provide a maintenance schedule tailored to your appliance and usage.
If you ever notice changes—unusual odors, smoke spillage, or moisture in the firebox—give us a call. Small issues addressed quickly prevent larger repairs later, especially through wet Connecticut springs and freezing winters.
We register applicable manufacturer warranties and provide photos of key components: cap, top plate, liner path, and appliance connection. Keep your documentation with appliance manuals for easy reference.
Use a properly fitting top‑sealing damper on open fireplaces to prevent conditioned air loss when the system is idle and to help startup draft on cold days.
Answers to common relining questions from Cheshire homeowners.
Not necessarily. Many clay tile liners are serviceable. We inspect and document the condition; if tiles are cracked, joints are missing, or the size is mismatched to your appliance, we explain why relining makes sense and what benefits you’ll see.
Proper sizing often improves draft and reduces smoke spillage, making fires easier to start and maintain. For stoves and inserts, a matched liner helps the appliance reach designed efficiency.
Most standard relines are completed in a single visit. Complex flues with offsets, tall chimneys, or significant prep may require additional time. We’ll provide a clear plan and schedule in advance.
We primarily serve Cheshire, CT and nearby central Connecticut communities. Call (203) 720-6528 for current availability.
Schedule chimney liner installation with Cheshire Chimney Specialists. We’ll size and insulate your liner for your appliance and Connecticut’s climate—and back it with clear documentation.