Cast Masonry vs. Stainless Steel Chimney Liners
If you are restoring your chimney, your contractor has probably offered you two choices in chimney liners. The two most widely used chimney liners are cast masonry and stainless steel and it is important to understand both types. There are vast differences between the two, so it is vital to understand these points when making a decision as important as this.
First off, stainless steel chimney liners have a varying degree of quality, so your contractor needs to install the top of the line model. All stainless steel will eventually wear out because of the heat that is produced from fireplaces. However, the rate in which they corrode is firmly dependent upon the quality of the stainless steel.
Cast masonry, on the other hand, does not have this issue with corrosion and it lasts much longer than stainless steel does. Those who are looking for a quick fix and who do not care about the lifespan of their chimney liner should choose steel. For the more quality, longer lasting type of chimney liner, then it is wise to go with the cast masonry instead.
In addition, insurance companies look at chimneys differently than a contractor does and sees stainless steel as an upgrade. Even if the replacement is necessary, only cast masonry is covered by most insurance companies, which is another bonus. Stainless steel would have to be paid for by the homeowner rather than the insurance company and most homeowners cannot afford this expense.
Therefore, when it comes to cast masonry or stainless steel chimney liners, the best option is the cast masonry for more reasons than just one. If a homeowner is insistent upon stainless steel, do not expect an insurance claim to be approved. Only cast masonry has the long life that homeowners prefer and the replacement is covered by insurance.