Who Can Install a Chimney Liner?
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It’s easy to forget about what’s going on inside your chimney while you’re enjoying the cozy benefits of a fireplace. But if you haven’t stopped to consider if you need a chimney liner, you may want to think about adding one, since it can help prevent cracking in your chimney and protect against moisture buildup. Here’s a helpful guide to who can install a chimney liner.
Benefits of Hiring a Chimney Repair Pro to Install a Chimney Liner
A chimney liner isn’t necessarily a requirement, and the steps to install one aren’t all that complex, but that doesn’t mean anybody can do the job. When you hire a local chimney repair professional to install a chimney liner, you can be sure the workers have the expertise and experience needed to access your roof safely and handle the often labor-intensive process of fitting and installing the liner. You’ll also have the peace of mind of knowing the work will be done without mistakes that could lead to big problems, like moisture damage or a chimney fire.
Can I Hire a Handyperson to Install a Chimney Liner?
Again, installing a chimney liner isn’t something just anyone can do, let alone do properly. A handyperson might say they can install one, but that’s only as good as their word. Unless your handyperson has installed a number of chimney liners before and you feel comfortable letting them do the job, you should hire a proper professional to get this job done.
Can I DIY Install a Chimney Liner?
The short answer is no, you shouldn’t DIY install a chimney liner for your home. You’re dealing with an element of your home that has a host of structural and fire safety components to it. There are also safety risks, such as working on the roof and coming into contact with toxic creosote and soot that’s built up in your chimney. While there are DIY kits you can buy to install a chimney liner, you can feel comfortable skipping this project and letting a professional install your chimney liner.
Leave all chimney work to a pro. Chimney jobs involve working on a roof, potential exposure to creosote, and ensuring a safe repair or installation of chimney parts. Each of these can be seriously harmful or even deadly for anyone without expertise.
How Do Pros Install Chimney Liners?
Installing a chimney liner might seem simple, but there’s a lot that can go wrong in the process, so it’s best to know what to expect before your pro gets started.
The first thing your pro should be doing is do an inspection of the chimney, which includes measuring the diameter and interior of your chimney. This will help them determine what kind of chimney liner you’ll need and what size. Once they’ve purchased the right kind of chimney liner, your pro will start the process of installing it, which involves guiding the liner down the chimney, securing it in place, and installing a top plate/cap with caulk. Depending on the design of the chimney liner, they may also add blanket insulation.
How Much Does Installing a Chimney Liner Cost?
Installing a chimney liner costs $2,500 on average, with the total price ranging from $650 to over $5,000 depending on the type of liner, the height of the chimney, and other factors. Labor makes up around $400 to $1,250 of the cost. You’ll also spend around $250 for an initial chimney inspection and $125 to $250 for chimney cleaning.
Here are the average costs of installing a chimney liner by material:
Stainless steel: $65 per square foot
Aluminum: $100–$300 per kit
Clay/terracotta: $10 per square foot
Cast-in-place: $25 per square foot
Ceramic sealant: $5,000 per chimney
