HeatShield® Flue Liner Repair: Coopertown Is Here for Memphis Homeowners
When your fireplace and chimney inspection reveals cracks and gaps in the mortar joints of your chimney liner – or damage along the expanse of that liner – you may be on your way to needing a new flue liner. This is an expensive and daunting job…but did you know that investing in a brand new chimney liner isn’t always the only option?
Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to have your liner repaired, resurfaced, and restored using a HeatShield® chimney relining method. HeatShield® uses a Cerfractory sealant to tightly seal up any cracks and imperfections, leaving you with a liner that’s looking good and working great.
HeatShield® is a product that Coopertown Services regularly installs and recommends. If you have questions or would like to set up an appointment, reach out now – we’re here to help.
How Do I Know if HeatShield® Is Right for Me?
Now, unfortunately, HeatShield® isn’t compatible with all chimneys. Whether or not it’s right for you depends on the type of material your liner is made of, in which case you may have to consider other methods.
Here’s the quick take: HeatShield® wouldn’t be a good fit if you already have a stainless steel liner. Yet, if you have a terracotta clay liner, there is a good chance that one of the three HeatShield® methods will be a suitable option for you.
If your flue liner is damaged or failing, Coopertown Services technicians will do a thorough assessment of the state of your chimney system, and explain what the most effective options are. If HeatShield® makes sense for your home, we’ll recommend one of several installation methods, depending on what kind of damage we’ve found.
What Does “Cerfractory” Mean?
Cerfractory is a combination of the words “ceramic” and “refractory,” which means HeatShield® combines the important characteristics of both of these things – and is therefore designed to properly seal the flue and hold up to the intense heat that your fireplace produces.
Why are both of these materials good for chimneys?
- Ceramic materials are made from inorganic, non-metallic substances which are typically hardened by heating. Examples include pottery, bricks, and tiles.
- Refractory materials are resistant to heat and are capable of withstanding high temperatures without melting or breaking down. These materials are often used in applications like furnace linings and kilns.
Therefore, HeatShield®’s “Cerfractory” sealant offers a product that is both ceramic and capable of withstanding extremely high temperatures – the best of both worlds.
How Is HeatShield® Installed?
If Coopertown Services is repairing your damaged flue liner, we’ll use one of two different HeatShield® repair systems to rid the liner of its defects.
If your gasket material (between flue liners) is missing or damaged…
If the problems are largely in the flue liner gaskets (either they’re cracked, eroded, or gaps and voids have developed), Coopertown technicians will likely recommend HeatShield®’s Joint Repair System.
We’ll use a specially designed applicator to fill any voids that exist in your liner, then smooth and seal them. After joint repairs are made, we’ll video scan the flue to ensure that every problem area has been addressed.
If you have more extensive damage…
If your flue liner’s damage is spread throughout, but the liner is still intact enough for repairs, we’ll recommend HeatShield®’s Resurfacing System.
To begin, Coopertown Services technicians apply an initial coat to prep and prime your flue, followed by a 1/4 inch layer of HeatShield® material. Just as we would after the Joint Repair system, we’ll video scan afterward to ensure that you have a fully restored, smoke-tight flue.
HeatShield® Makes a Chimney Relining Product Too
If your chimney liner is damaged beyond repair, Coopertown Services technicians can reline your flue using HeatShield®’s CeCure Sleeve Relining System. This product also uses the company’s Cerfractory sealant material, but in this case, the ceramic insulation is reinforced with stainless steel on both sides.
Can I Install HeatShield® Myself?
We understand that some homeowners have an interest in DIY work, but we strongly encourage you to leave chimney work to the professionals – especially when it comes to your chimney liner. Since the liner plays such a vital role in protecting your home from combustibles, maintaining efficiency, and prevent acidic gases from breaking down your chimney, any repairs should always be left to the pros.
In addition, certain chimney repairs – HeatShield® resurfacing included – require you to get up on your roof and that’s a big safety hazard without the proper equipment. We don’t want you to put yourself at risk, especially when we’re fully trained and prepared to get the job done for you.
To really seal the deal on this particular repair, though, the HeatShield® Cerfractory® Flue Sealant is only available to be purchased by eligible installers. To qualify as a HeatShield® installer, chimney professionals have to be certified by the Chimney Institute of America (CSIA) or another nationally recognized certification organization and pass SaverSystems’ training course.
No worries, though – we check all the boxes. If you’re a Memphis homeowner needing chimney liner repair services, we’re the team to call on – reach out today to get started.
How Much Does HeatShield® Chimney Relining Cost?
We tend to refrain from providing estimates without seeing your chimney, as all systems are different and we won’t be able to provide an honest and accurate report without looking things over first. After we inspect your chimney, we’ll be able to advise you on which of the three methods is right for you and the cost.
That said, it’s important to note that HeatShield® is a more cost-effective solution compared to other available lining options, which is why it’s such a great alternative in the market. It’s also less expensive than the cost of tearing down your chimney and rebuilding it, which would often be the only alternative if this method wasn’t available.
Of course, you can always reach out to us to talk about pricing. We can give you rough estimates, then one of our customer service representatives can give you a better idea of the price once we have more intel on your chimney and we have a clearer understanding of your needs.
How Do I Maintain a Chimney Relined With Heatshield®?
Once HeatShield® is installed, you don’t have to do anything out of the ordinary to keep it up. As long as you schedule a chimney inspection once a year and get your chimney cleaned annually, you should be good to go!
In addition, be sure you’re taking appropriate measures to operate your fireplace appropriately – like burning only the appropriate fuel, ensuring good draft and airflow, and keeping an eye on chimney components to ensure all parts are effectively doing their job.
Can I Put Off Chimney Liner Repair & Resurfacing Work?
When homeowners find out they have chimney liner damage, they typically think of two things: money and mess. And while it’s true – liner replacement can be costly and we do have to tear out your old liner if we’re relining with stainless steel – that’s no longer the only choice thanks to HeatShield® and other methods, like FireGuard.
…yet, despite being cheaper, these repairs still cost money. Can they be put off until a more convenient time? Well, we don’t recommend this.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 211 standard states:
“If the flue liner in a chimney has softened, cracked, or otherwise deteriorated so that it no longer has the ability to contain the products of combustion (i.e. heat, moisture, creosote, and flue gases), it shall be removed and replaced, repaired, or relined…”
Local codes also require chimney liners to be in good condition. This isn’t just because new liners look nice…it’s because liners play a vital role in protecting your home and family.
Thankfully, now we can offer you HeatShield®, so you don’t have to shell out the big bucks for a new stainless steel liner. Schedule an appointment with Coopertown today.
Curious To See if HeatShield® Might Work for You? Reach Out Today
HeatShield® is one of several different chimney relining options that Coopertown Services offers. Our experienced CSIA-certified technicians would love to help you decide if it’s an appropriate choice for your home.
If you’d like to find out more about HeatShield® products and if they might be right for your chimney, call Coopertown Services at 901-358-7777 or schedule an appointment online today.
Whatever chimney lining resurfacing you might need, Coopertown Services is standing by to get it done right.