The different types of flue liner in Cheltenham

Flue liners in Cheltenham – Recommended by Turner Baker

Type of Flue Liner in CheltenhamA flue liner is, in simple terms a tube that fits down inside a chimney (or existing flue in an older property). Flue liners are available in various materials including stainless steel, pumice, silica polymer and thermosetting resin. Flue liners are mandatory for new build properties in accordance with building regulations Document J. This means that if you are building a new property that has a chimney that will be used for heating purposes then it must be suitably lined.

Here is an overview of the different flue liners available:

Furanflex chimney liners

Relatively new to the market is the Furanflex thermosetting resin lining system. In laymen’s terms, this refers to a liner that is supplied as a soft malleable material which can be installed into a chimney and which is then steamed or ‘cured’ into a hard structure that is resistant to high temperatures. The Furanflex liner was introduced to the UK market in 2010 following a range of comprehensive tests to ensure that the product met UK standards. The product is now certified by BBA (British Board of Agreement see the website here: www.bbacerts.co.uk.

There are various benefits to using a Furanflex lining system. The first benefit is that the product is installed as a flexible tube. For properties with chimneys that have multiple bends in them – and this is certainly the case for many older properties – this is a great benefit. This flue liner can be installed freestanding and can be moulded to take the existing shape of the chimney which maximises the cross-sectional area of the flue. Many other chimney lining systems are a set shape and could reduce the size of the flue which in turn affects performance. Also, the Furanflex liner does not adhere itself to the chimney and can, therefore, be removed if required. This makes it a great option for heritage properties that have listing restrictions that don’t allow for permanent changes to the structure.

The Furanflex lining system has a 25-year guarantee. If there ever is a chimney fire – systems such as stainless steel will need to be replaced before the flue can be used again. The Furanflex system is able to withstand extremely high temperatures – and in theory, is more likely to be able to withstand a chimney fire. However, any flue that has been affected by a chimney fire should always be inspected along its length prior to being reused.

Stainless steel flue liners

Chimney Flue Lining CheltenhamThe entry point into chimney and flue linings is stainless steel.

Stainless steel linings are available in either a flexible format (to accommodate for bends in the chimney or flue structure) or as a rigid piece. Flexible stainless steel liners are supplied as one long, individual piece whereas rigid stainless steel liners are supplied in sections which are then slotted together. Flexible stainless steel flue liners can be ordered from Turner Baker Ltd for either multi-fuel stoves or for gas and oil appliances.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Stainless Steel Chimney Liners

Advantages
• Relatively inexpensive
• Can be installed as a freestanding unit either on the inside or outside of a property
• Can be used to refurbish existing flues

Disadvantages
• Short lifespan – many stainless steel liners are only guaranteed for 10 years
• Will not withstand any chimney fire
• Can corrode rapidly with the use of certain fuels
• Easy to damage on installation

Pumice Flue Liners

Chimney Lining CheltenhamIsokern Flue Pumice provides natural insulation. This is a unique property that separates pumice flue liners from all other types of chimney material. The insulating properties of Pumice allow the flue gases within a chimney to quickly reach their optimal temperature enabling the heating appliance to reach its optimum performance in a shorter space of time.
This will keep the chimney warmer for longer, as the heat output of the appliance decreases – once again aiding overall performance and reduces the likelihood of condensation and soot build-up.

DM (Double Module)
The Isokern Double Module block system is a high-quality chimney system and is a popular choice in Scandinavia and other parts of Europe. The double wall system helps maintain flue gas temperatures and prevents heat transference to the outer casing. The separation of the inner and outer components allows for thermal movement which reduces the risk of cracking and any subsequent leaking or staining. The double module is simple and quick to build. Available in 3 outer casing sizes, they are ideally suited to new builds and useful when constructing entirely new flues and chimney stacks.

Pumice Flue Liners
The wide range of Isokern flue liners consists of 17 different sizes. These flue liners can be used for new builds, extensions and even relining existing chimneys.

For any enquiries regarding flue liners in Cheltenham please call us today on 01242 649660 if you are interested in any of the above chimney liner products. We will be happy to advise you on the system that is right for you.

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