My Fireplace Roars Loudly: 7 Signs You Need Fireplace & Stove Relining in Myrtle Beach (And What It Costs)

By Andrew and Aguilar Chimney Inc Team · Updated October 17, 2026

If your fireplace in Myrtle Beach roars loudly during use, it’s often a sign of cracked or deteriorating flue liners, especially after years of coastal humidity and seasonal temperature swings. Relining (replacing the liner) costs $1,500–$4,000, while resurfacing (repairing) runs $500–$1,500. The key difference: relining fixes structural damage, while resurfacing patches minor wear. Schedule an inspection now to avoid creosote buildup risks during winter.

A fireplace & stove relining is replacing the inner chimney liner with new, fireproof material (like stainless steel or ceramic).

In Myrtle Beach’s coastal climate, where humidity and salt air accelerate wear, a relined chimney means installing a new flue liner, typically stainless steel, cast-in-place urethane, or clay tile, to restore proper draft and safety. This is not the same as resurfacing, which only patches cracks in existing masonry. Relining is necessary when the liner is cracked, corroded, or collapsed, which is common in older homes near the Intracoastal Waterway or along the Grand Strand. The process involves removing the old liner, inspecting the chimney structure, and installing a new one that meets the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) standards for fire resistance and airflow. If your fireplace roars loudly even with a clean chimney, relining is often the solution, especially if you’ve noticed soot escaping into the room or a strong odor when the fire is lit.

A fireplace & stove resurfacing is applying a protective coating (like silicone or cementitious paint) over existing masonry to seal minor cracks.

Resurfacing is a cheaper, less invasive fix for superficial damage, think hairline cracks or spalling (flaking) on the chimney’s outer masonry. In Myrtle Beach, where sudden rainstorms and salt spray test chimneys, resurfacing can buy you time before a full reline is needed. However, it won’t address structural issues like a collapsed liner or deep cracks. For example, if your chimney leaks only when it rains but otherwise functions fine, resurfacing with a waterproofing sealant (cost: $500–$1,500) might suffice. But if you’ve seen rust stains on the ceiling or a persistent draft, relining is the only permanent fix. Pro tip: If your chimney was built before the 1980s, it likely lacks modern fire-resistant liners, making relining a proactive move before winter. Learn more about Myrtle Beach’s coastal climate risks in our waterproofing guide.

1. Your fireplace roars or backdrafts even with a clean chimney (the #1 sign you need relining).

A roaring fireplace in Myrtle Beach isn’t just annoying, it’s dangerous. If your chimney is clean but still struggles to draw smoke upward, the liner is likely cracked or collapsed, forcing air to fight its way out sideways. This is especially common in older homes near the Market Common area, where chimneys were often built with substandard materials. A relined chimney restores proper draft, but resurfacing won’t help. Test this by lighting a small fire: if smoke lingers in the room or the fire smolders instead of burning brightly, schedule a relining inspection. Ignoring this can lead to creosote buildup, which the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) calls a leading cause of chimney fires. For a quick check, see our DIY inspection tips before calling a pro.

2. You see rust stains on the ceiling or walls near the fireplace (a clear sign of liner failure).

Rust stains around your fireplace in Myrtle Beach aren’t just cosmetic, they’re proof your chimney liner is corroded or missing. Coastal humidity and salt air accelerate metal deterioration, especially in chimneys near the ocean or in areas like Barefoot Landing, where indoor-outdoor living exposes chimneys to moisture. If you notice orange-brown streaks on ceilings or walls, the liner has likely rusted through, allowing soot and combustion gases to escape. Resurfacing won’t stop this, you’ll need a full reline with stainless steel or cast-in-place urethane. The good news? Relining also improves efficiency, reducing heat loss by up to 30%. Check our cost guide for relining vs. resurfacing to budget for this critical repair.

3. Your chimney leaks water during rainstorms (resurfacing can help, but relining is often needed).

A leaking chimney in Myrtle Beach is a red flag, but not all leaks require relining. If water only drips during heavy rain and your chimney is otherwise solid, resurfacing with a waterproofing sealant (like Krinkle Kote) might suffice. However, if the leak persists after resurfacing or you see water stains inside your home, the liner is likely cracked or missing entirely. Relining with a waterproof liner (like Schiedel’s Hydro-Block system) is the only permanent fix. Pro tip: If your chimney is built with brick, check for efflorescence (white, powdery deposits), a sign of moisture seeping through cracks. Learn how to waterproof your chimney before leaks worsen.

4. You’ve had multiple chimney fires or excessive creosote buildup (a fire hazard that requires relining).

Creosote is the black, tar-like substance that builds up in chimneys, and in Myrtle Beach’s dry winter months, it’s a ticking time bomb. If you’ve had to sweep your chimney more than twice a year or notice thick, glossy creosote (Stage 2 or 3), your liner may be damaged, allowing incomplete combustion. Relining with a smooth, corrosion-resistant liner reduces creosote buildup by improving airflow. Resurfacing won’t help here, it’s purely cosmetic. The EPA's Burn Wise program recommends burning only seasoned hardwoods to minimize creosote, but even then, a damaged liner increases risk. See our guide on safe wood burning for Myrtle Beach homes to lower fire hazards.

5. Your chimney smells like gas or has a strong, acrid odor when the fire is lit.

A chimney that smells like gas or has a sharp, chemical odor is a serious warning sign. In Myrtle Beach, this often happens when the liner is cracked or corroded, allowing carbon monoxide (CO) or unburned gases to seep into your home. Resurfacing won’t fix this, you need a reline to restore a proper, sealed flue. If you or your family experience headaches, dizziness, or nausea near the fireplace, schedule an emergency inspection immediately. CO poisoning is preventable, and relining is the only way to ensure your chimney contains all combustion byproducts. Learn the 7 signs of a failing chimney cap in Myrtle Beach to catch issues early.

6. Your chimney is over 20 years old (or was built before modern safety codes).

If your Myrtle Beach home was built before the 1980s, your chimney likely lacks modern fire-resistant liners. Older chimneys often have clay tile liners that crack over time, or no liner at all, just a hollow brick chimney. Relining is a proactive upgrade, especially if you plan to use your fireplace regularly during winter. Resurfacing won’t address the lack of a liner. Modern liners also improve efficiency, reducing heat loss and lowering heating costs. For homes near the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk or older neighborhoods like Ocean Drive, relining can add value by meeting current the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)|https://www.csia.org/)) safety standards. See our guide on upgrading chimneys in Myrtle Beach for cost-saving tips.

7. You’re installing a new high-efficiency wood stove or gas fireplace (relining is required).

Modern wood stoves and gas fireplaces in Myrtle Beach require chimneys with specific liner diameters and materials to ensure proper ventilation and safety. If you’re upgrading from an old fireplace to a high-efficiency model, your chimney will need relining to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)|https://www.nfpa.org/)) standards for clearances and airflow. Resurfacing won’t cut it, you’ll need a new liner sized for your stove’s BTU output. For example, a high-efficiency wood stove may require a 6-inch diameter liner, while older chimneys often have 8-inch or larger openings. Check our comparison guide for wood vs. gas fireplaces to choose the right setup for your home.

Fireplace & Stove Relining vs. Resurfacing in Myrtle Beach: Cost Comparison

The cost of relining vs. resurfacing depends on your chimney’s condition, materials, and whether additional repairs (like waterproofing) are needed. In Myrtle Beach, where labor costs are higher due to demand, prices vary. Here’s a realistic breakdown:

| Service | Cost Range (Myrtle Beach) | When to Choose | Lifespan | |---------------------------|-------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|-------------------| | Stainless Steel Relining | $1,800–$4,000 | Cracked/corroded liners, high-efficiency stoves | 20–30 years | | Cast-in-Place Urethane | $1,500–$3,500 | Older homes, irregular chimney shapes | 30+ years | | Clay Tile Relining | $2,000–$4,500 | Historic homes, traditional fireplaces | 25–40 years | | Masonry Resurfacing | $500–$1,500 | Minor cracks, cosmetic repairs | 5–10 years | | Waterproofing + Resurfacing | $800–$2,000 | Leaking chimneys, preventative maintenance | 7–12 years |

*Note: Prices include labor, materials, and a CSIA-certified inspection. Add $200–$500 for permits if required by Horry County. Get a free estimate for your Myrtle Beach relining project to lock in pricing before winter hits.

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