How To Install a Chimney Liner and Damper

Installing a chimney liner and damper is important for the safety and efficiency of your fireplace. This process involves adding a protective layer inside your chimney and a mechanism to control airflow. While it’s a complex task, understanding the basics can help you make the right decision about your fireplace’s maintenance and safety. We’ll explore the steps involved in installing a chimney line and damper, guided by the expertise of This Old House host Kevin O’Connor and chimney expert Clint Sanner.

*Cost data in this article sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.

Understanding Chimney Liners and Dampers

A chimney liner is a protective layer installed inside the chimney flue. It serves several important purposes, including containing combustion byproducts, improving heat transfer, protecting the chimney structure, and making your fireplace more efficient.

Chimney liners are typically made of stainless steel for durability and resistance to high temperatures. In the video, Sanner demonstrates the installation of a stainless steel liner, highlighting its importance for safety and performance.

The Role of a Damper

A damper is a movable plate or valve that controls the airflow in your chimney. It serves two primary functions—regulating draft during fireplace use and sealing the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. Without a proper damper, your home can lose heat through the chimney, even when you’re not using the fireplace.

Preparing for Chimney Liner and Damper Installation

Before beginning the installation process, you need to prepare your area. This involves determining the current state of your chimney and gathering the right tools and materials.

Assessing Your Chimney

Start by inspecting your existing chimney and gathering the dimensions. Look for signs of damage or deterioration, the presence of creosote buildup, and the condition of your existing liner if you have one.

Gathering Tools and Materials

To install a chimney liner and damper, you’ll need:

• Electric chipping hammer
• Electric drill with a flue brush attachment
• High-temperature silicone sealant
• Insulation material
• Mortar mix
• Safety equipment (gloves, goggles, dust mask)
• Stainless steel chimney liner
• Top-sealing damper

Chimney Liner and Damper Installation Process

Installing a chimney liner and damper involves many steps. While it’s a job best left to professionals, understanding the process can help you make some decisions about future maintenance tasks.

Removing Existing Bricks

The first step in the installation process is to create space for the new liner. This often involves removing some bricks from the rear wall of the fireplace, as demonstrated by Sanner using an electric chipping hammer to remove the necessary bricks.

Cleaning the Chimney

Before installing the new liner, the existing chimney needs to be cleaned thoroughly. This step removes creosote buildup and other debris that could interfere with the installation or pose a fire hazard. Sanner uses an electric drill with a flue brush attachment to clean the chimney from top to bottom.

Installing the Liner

The chimney liner installation process includes the following steps:

1. Insert the liner from the roof, feeding it down to the fireplace.
2. Attach the mesh base plate to the bottom of the liner.
3. Secure the liner at the correct height.
4. Flatten the mesh base plate and screw it to the fireplace walls.
5. Apply mortar over the mesh base plate for a smooth finish.

Adding Insulation

Insulating your chimney liner is important for safety and efficiency. It helps contain heat in the liner, preventing transfer to combustible materials in the home’s structure. In the video, Sanner uses a poured-in insulation method, mixing the insulation material with water to create a soupy consistency that can be easily poured around the liner.

Installing the Top Plate and Damper

The final steps are to install the top plate and damper:

1. Slide the top plate over the liner at the chimney’s top.
2. Secure the plate with high-temperature silicone sealant.
3. Tighten the clamp to hold the top plate in place.
4. Install the top-sealing damper.
5. Drop the damper control cable down the liner into the fireplace.

Installing a Chimney Liner and Damper: Additional Considerations

During the installation process, there are a few things to consider that can make for a smoother and more successful project.

Ventilation

Ventilation is important for maintaining good indoor air quality and preventing any buildup of harmful gases, including carbon monoxide. Check that your new chimney liner and damper don’t obstruct airflow and comply with local building codes and regulations.

Material Compatibility

Choose materials that are compatible with your specific fireplace and chimney setup. Stainless steel liners are very durable and heat-resistant, making them a top choice for many homes. However, consult with a professional to decide on the right materials for your home and fireplace.

Professional Inspection

Consider having a professional inspect your fireplace and chimney before and after the installation. This can help you identify any issues that may need to be addressed before installation, and they can check if the finished installation meets all safety standards.

Benefits of a Properly Installed Chimney Liner and Damper

Installing a chimney liner and damper offers many advantages for homeowners. One of the best features of this installation is safety. A properly installed chimney liner contains combustion byproducts, prevents heat transfer to combustible materials, and reduces the risk of chimney fires.

Chimney liners also provide better efficiency. This leads to better draft and smoke evacuation, lower heating costs, and reduced heat loss when your fireplace is not being used. Liners protect your chimney from corrosive byproducts and excessive heat, extending the life of your chimney while preventing frequent, costly repairs.

Chimney Liner and Damper: Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance is important for the longevity and effectiveness of your new liner and damper, so we’ve provided a few suggestions for maintaining your chimney.

Annual Inspections

Schedule annual inspections by a certified chimney sweep technician to check for any signs of wear, damage, or buildup. Regular inspections can help identify issues early and prevent more expensive repairs.

Regular Cleaning

Clean your chimney regularly to prevent creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard. Professional technicians have the tools and expertise to clean your chimney thoroughly and safely.

Damper Operation Check

Frequently check the operation of the damper to make sure it opens and closes smoothly. Address any issues quickly to maintain proper airflow and prevent energy loss.

Timely Repairs

Address any issues as soon as they come up to avoid more serious problems. Whether it’s a minor crack in the liner or a malfunctioning damper, timely repairs can save you money and keep your fireplace in good condition.

Professional Maintenance

Consider hiring professionals for regulation maintenance tasks. While some tasks, such as cleaning, can be done by homeowners, others, like inspections and repairs, should be done by certified chimney specialists.

Our Conclusion

Installing a chimney liner and damper should be handled by professionals, but understanding the steps involved can help you decide if this is the right renovation project for your home. With proper installation, inspections, and maintenance, your chimney liner and damper will provide many years of safe fireplace use.