Name: Rocky Mountain Connection
Price range: $$

If you live in Clovis and your home has a fireplace, you probably don’t think too much about what’s happening inside your chimney. And hey, I don’t blame you. It’s not exactly something we check daily. But when smoke starts coming back inside, or you get a warning during a home inspection, suddenly that chimney liner becomes a big deal. And if you’re wondering how long it takes to fix or install one—don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Let’s talk about what goes into installing a chimney liner and what you can expect, especially if you live in the Clovis area.

The Quick Answer (But It Depends…)

Let’s cut to the chase—installing a chimney liner can take anywhere from 4 hours to a full day, depending on a few important things:

The height and condition of your chimney
Whether the old liner needs to be removed
The type of liner being installed (metal, clay, or cast-in-place)
Accessibility (steep roofs, narrow flues, etc.)

If you’ve got a straightforward setup, it could be done before lunch. If your chimney’s seen better days or it’s super tall, it might take a bit longer. But most homes in Clovis fall somewhere in the middle.

Why Bother With a Liner in the First Place?

You might be wondering why you even need a liner. Can’t the chimney just do its job as-is? Well, technically yes—but not for long, and definitely not safely.

Chimney liners do more than just keep smoke going the right direction. They:

Protect the walls of the chimney from heat and corrosion
Help your fireplace or heating appliance work efficiently
Reduce the risk of chimney fires
Prevent toxic gases (like carbon monoxide) from leaking into your home

Without a good liner, your chimney is kind of like wearing flip-flops in a snowstorm—barely hanging in there and definitely not safe long-term.

What Happens During Installation?

Installing a chimney liner isn’t a slap-some-duct-tape-on-it kind of job. There’s a process. Here’s a simplified breakdown so you know what to expect:

Step	What Happens
Chimney inspection	The tech checks for blockages, damage, and overall condition
Old liner removal (if there is one)	Any old, damaged liner is taken out—can take time if stuck
Measurements and prep	They measure your flue and prep the new liner
Liner insertion	The new liner (usually flexible stainless steel) is lowered in
Top sealing and capping	The liner is secured at the top, sealed, and capped off
Connection to appliance	The liner is connected to your stove, furnace, or fireplace
Final testing	The whole system is checked to make sure it’s safe and working

Chimney Liner Types and Key Features

In Clovis, most homes use stainless steel liners—they’re durable, flexible, and work with both wood-burning and gas systems. But here’s a quick comparison of liner types and what makes each one unique:

Liner Type	Key Features	Best For
Stainless Steel	Flexible or rigid, rust-resistant, lasts 15–25 years	Most residential homes
Clay Tile	Traditional but hard to install, cracks over time	Older homes (if repairing, not replacing)
Cast-in-Place	Poured concrete-like material, very durable	Damaged chimneys needing structural repair

If you’re unsure which one you need, your installer will usually recommend the best match for your fireplace or appliance setup.

Safety First: Why Professional Installation Matters

You might think about turning this into a DIY weekend project, but trust me—chimney liner installation is one of those jobs better left to the pros. Here’s why:

Climbing roofs and working at heights is dangerous without the right gear.
Improper liner size can lead to smoke backup or carbon monoxide leaks.
Sealing errors can cause moisture damage and chimney deterioration.

“A poorly installed liner can do more harm than good,” says a Clovis-based chimney expert. “You don’t want to find that out mid-winter when your fireplace is blowing smoke inside.”

How Much Does It Cost in Clovis?

Chimney liner installation isn’t cheap, but it’s a worthwhile investment for your home’s safety. Here’s a breakdown of what you might spend:

Service	Average Cost in Clovis
Stainless steel liner (parts only)	$300 – $800
Full install (labor + materials)	$1,000 – $2,000
Old liner removal (if needed)	$100 – $300 extra
Chimney inspection (before install)	$100 – $200
Cast-in-place liner	$2,000 – $4,000+

Prices vary based on chimney height, complexity, and liner type, so it’s smart to get a few estimates from local companies.

FAQs: Chimney Liner Installation

Q: How long does a chimney liner last?
A: Stainless steel liners usually last between 15–25 years if properly maintained.

Q: Can I use my fireplace right after installation?
A: Yes—once it’s inspected and approved by the installer, you’re good to go.

Q: Do I need a chimney liner if I don’t use my fireplace much?
A: Yes. Even unused chimneys can let in moisture or cold air, which causes long-term damage.

Q: Will this improve my fireplace’s efficiency?
A: Absolutely. A properly fitted liner helps heat go where it should and reduces creosote buildup.

Q: Is a permit required for installation in Clovis?
A: Often, yes. Most installers will handle this, but it’s good to confirm upfront.

Wrapping It Up: Is One Day Worth a Safer Chimney?

Installing a chimney liner might sound like a hassle, but when you break it down, it’s usually done in a day—and the peace of mind it brings is totally worth it. Especially in a city like Clovis, where many homes have older chimneys, staying on top of maintenance can prevent way bigger problems down the line.

So, whether you’re prepping for cozy winter fires or just passed a home inspection that flagged your chimney, don’t put it off. It’s just one day of work for years of warmth, safety, and confidence—thanks to a strong, properly installed chimney liner.