Heating appliances, such as fireplaces, stoves, and furnaces, work tirelessly during our notoriously cold and wet winter seasons, keeping homes in the Milwaukee area warm and cozy. As a result, a durable and long-lasting chimney liner is vital for reducing the risk of fire and exposure to toxic carbon monoxide fumes. While clay or terra cotta liners are the most common, stainless steel liners are becoming the de facto standard in the industry. Their superior resistance to moisture, pests, and corrosion, coupled with their ability to withstand very high temperatures, makes them an excellent choice for many heating systems.
Stainless Steel Vs. Clay Terra Cotta Liners
Many older homes in Milwaukee have chimneys with clay or terra cotta tile liners that have reached the end of their useful lifespan and now require repair or replacement. Clay tiles are susceptible to cracking due to thermal shock, a phenomenon that occurs when they are subjected to rapid heating and cooling. These cracks can compromise the liner’s ability to contain gases within the flue, allowing heat to escape and potentially igniting nearby combustible materials, such as wood chases, attics, and walls.
In contrast, stainless steel liners offer a more durable and longer-lasting solution, as they can withstand higher temperatures than traditional clay liners. They are also resistant to moisture and acidic byproducts. The smooth, seamless steel surface reduces creosote buildup and improves energy efficiency. These features make stainless steel liners an ideal solution for protecting the integrity of chimney flues.
Stainless Steel Liner Benefits
We highly recommend stainless steel liners for new installations and relining projects. They are a durable, long-lasting, and versatile solution for chimney flues serving wood, gas, oil, or pellet-burning appliances. They also offer many benefits, including:
- Exceptional Durability: Constructed from high-grade stainless steel, these liners naturally resist corrosion, rust, and the intense heat of combustion, offering a lifespan that often exceeds other liner types.
- Enhances Safety: A seamless steel barrier helps prevent toxic gases, such as carbon monoxide, from leaking into your home. It also contains sparks and extreme heat that could damage other liner materials.
- Improves Heating Efficiency: A correctly sized stainless-steel liner enhances draft, allowing your heating appliance to burn more efficiently. It can lead to better performance and lower energy costs.
- Reduces Creosote Buildup: The smooth surface of a stainless steel liner minimizes the adherence of soot and creosote, making it easier to clean and maintain while reducing the risk of chimney fires.
- Versatility: Stainless steel liners are compatible with a wide range of heating appliances, making them an ideal solution for burning wood, gas, oil, or pellet fuel.
Straightforward Installation Process
In most cases, installing a stainless steel UL-listed liner is a relatively straightforward process. The flexible tube is measured to fit your specific flue, ensuring it meets the required specifications for your attached heating appliance. This is important as an incorrectly sized liner can cause venting problems and reduce its efficiency. It is typically installed through the chimney top, without the need to remove the existing liner.
Maintaining Your Stainless Steel Liner
After installation, you will find that maintaining your stainless steel liner is much simpler, as soot and creosote residue brush away more easily with regular chimney sweeping. Then, an annual inspection, which includes a thorough check of the liner’s condition and a professional cleaning to remove any accumulated debris, is all it takes to maintain its optimum performance. It doesn’t get much easier than that!
Stainless Steel Liners for Sale & Installation in Greater Milwaukee
Smoke Stacks is Milwaukee’s premier source for top-quality stainless-steel liners, installation, and maintenance. Our outstanding team of professionals and installers serves homeowners in Greendale, Muskego, St. Francis, Walker’s Point, and surrounding southeastern Wisconsin townships. We treat each customer like family, ensuring that every chimney liner installation is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
