Relining a chimney is a complicated but following the right steps will help ease the process. You must be conscientious of everything—from taking careful measurements to meeting local government standards to how you spend money. If you are wondering about how to reline a chimney, this step by step guide will help you in every aspect of the practice.
1. Take precise measurements
The first and foremost step is to take measurements to decide what type of liner to purchase and what tools will be required for it. Measure from approximately one foot above the chimney down to the point you will be connecting the appliance. This provides the length of the pipe you will need to line the chimney.
2. Buy a chimney liner kit
A basic chimney liner kit comes with four main components: a stainless steel chimney liner, connector, top plate, and rain cap. All you need to do is mix and match these four essential components. You can buy them in a kit or custom create your own to suit your needs.
3. Unpack the materials
Remove the chimney liner from its packaging and lay it out straight on a flat surface such as a driveway.
4. Attach the connector to the appliance
Whether your kit has a regular appliance connector or a tee connector, attach the connector to your appliance. Tighten up your hose clamp on the connector, but do not over tighten it to avoid the liner’s damage.
5. Take measurements for chimney liner insulation
The most significant step is insulating the liner. Liner insulation should be a minimum of ¼” and must cover the entire length of the liner. Determine the width of the insulating wrap, and multiply the length of the pipe from one side to the other and add one and a half inch for overlap. The insulation has to overlap by one inch, therefore, adding an extra half gives more space.
6. Cut the liner insulation
Cut out the insulation from the foil side, facing down on the ground and place your liner at the center.
7. Wrap the insulation around the chimney liner
A premium adhesive spray helps to wrap the insulation in a much easier way. As you roll the liner up, spray the adhesive to avoid slipping of the insulation.
8. Tape the seam
Once the insulation is wrapped, use foil tape at the joint. Tape in 6-9″ increments horizontally down the seam of the liner, then cover with one continuous strip down the seam. The vertical taping prevents tearing as the mesh is installed to the liner.
9. Secure the insulation with wire mesh
As the liner system is dropped down from the chimney, wire mesh helps to prevent the insulation from tearing. Unfold the mesh and use the hose clamps to attach it to one end of the liner. Pull the mesh down the liner to fit it perfectly and connect at the opposite end using hose clamps. After everything is fixed, you can drop the liner into the chimney.
10. Pull the liner down the chimney
The final step includes working on the roof and you must be very careful. Since it’s an enormous pipe, make sure to handle it properly. It is essential to attach a pulling cone to the bottom of the liner so it can be easily pulled down through the chimney as opposed to dropping it down. In such a case, you will need the help of another person to pull from the bottom.
If this all sounds too much for you, there is no shame in calling a reputable masonry service such as Mr. Roof to reline your chimney. It can be dangerous, and you want to make sure it is done right. We are committed to providing amazing customer services and a lifetime warranty to our clients.
