What is a Rigid Chimney Liner?

A rigid chimney liner is just like how it sounds rigid. A rigid chimney liner does not bend and is designed to be installed in a chimney flue that goes straight to the heating source with no bends in the flue. If your chimney has bends or imperfections in the flue on its way to the fireplace or fireplace insert, then you will want to use a flexible chimney liner.

Most rigid chimney liners are made of 304L or 316L. 304L should only be used for wood and 316L can be used for all fuels. This rigid chimney liner alloy is also made up of stainless steel which means that it does not rust overtime.

What is the Difference Between Rigid and Flexible Chimney Liners?

The main difference between the two types of chimney liners is the interior wall. In most flexible chimney liners, the interior wall of the chimney liner is corrugated or has ridges where creosote can buildup. In a rigid chimney liner the interior wall is smooth and it is very hard for creosote to buildup.  Creosote is the deadly by product for burning woods and other fuels. It deposits itself in cracks in masonry chimneys and any areas in the chimney that are not smooth. Overtime creosote will build up and could possible catch fire and produce a chimney fire. Having a rigid chimney liner in your masonry chimney over a flexible chimney will improve cleaning and cut down on creosote buildup.

What About Cost For A Rigid Chimney Liner?

Cost is the usual deciding factor when a homeowner is shopping around for chimney liners, well if you are looking for the most cost effective chimney liner then rigid is not going to be your choice.  Rigid chimney liners are expensive when compared to flexible chimney liners of equal diameters. Also rigid chimney liners are sold up to 48 inch in length pipes when you can buy the whole length of chimney liner you will need with a flexible chimney liner.

Can Rigid Chimney Parts Only Be Used With A Rigid Chimney Liner?

When people think of chimney parts like rain caps and tee connectors that is usually made of the same material as a rigid chimney liner, but these parts are not just for rigid chimney liners. Both flexible chimney liners and rigid chimney liners can use the same parts.