HeatShield®: An Effective Solution for Repairing Your Chimney Clay Liner
Have you been told that you need a new chimney liner? For many, their mind goes straight to stainless steel. And we get it! Stainless steel is known for its durability and longevity, making it quite an appealing option.
All that said, relining your fireplace flue with stainless steel can require the removal of the existing terracotta clay tiles – and this is a destructive process. Your chimney was not designed to be taken apart and then reconstructed. And while it can be done in the right circumstances, the process is both time-consuming and can be incredibly messy from the tile removal process.
Which is why we have found, if given the choice, more homeowners are choosing HeatShield® to repair their flue. Why? It takes half the time, it does not impact the chimney structure, and it does not invite a huge mess.
What Is HeatShield® Chimney Relining?
Old, deteriorating, or compromised clay tile linings can create serious safety issues and cause your home major problems down the line.
HeatShield® chimney relining uses a specially formulated Cerfractory® material that restores the integrity of your chimney’s flue, ensuring hazardous flue gases are safely vented from your home. This method of repair has been used in Europe for over 20 years and is gaining popularity in the United States because the repairs can be done without removing the terra cotta clay tiles that currently line your flue.
HeatShield® products are designed to provide superior protection and are quickly becoming the industry standard in liner repair. The patented ceramic-fiber material reduces clearance requirements and provides optimal fire protection – making it perfect for almost any situation. And installation is less intrusive, requiring a fraction of the time when compared to traditional terracotta tile and mortar techniques.
What Is the Technology Behind HeatShield®?
Every fireplace needs a functional chimney that can vent smoke and hazardous gases away from the living space. To keep your chimney working properly, it’s important to have it inspected regularly and repaired when needed. That said, if a bigger job like a relining service is required, it can take a toll on your schedule and budget.
HeatShield®’s technology makes this process easier with a special heat-resistant ceramic sealant that can be placed within the existing flue exhaust vent to extend its life – without requiring the costly removal of the old structure. This insulated, refractory material keeps and prevents surfaces from becoming dangerously overheated, so you can rest easy knowing your system is safe for use and ready for anything.
How Is a HeatShield® Liner Installed?
HeatShield®’s chimney refractory ceramic is an innovative product designed to protect your chimney system from potential heat and creosote damage. Installing this product can be a less disruptive and more affordable process, depending on the size and scope of the project.
A single-layer option is available, which gives the added flexibility of being able to install it anywhere in the flue liner. However, for maximum protection and efficiency, it’s recommended that the double-layer option is used.
So, what’s the process like?
- The chimney liner beforehand will need to be properly prepped and the form will need to be fitted for the best results.
- The form will be dropped into the firebox, then lifted in place right above the smoke chamber where the clay tiles start.
- Once the form is ready to be wenched, the refractory ceramic is placed down the existing flue tiles, landing on the form below.
- As the form is brought up slowly, the ceramic material is squeezed into every gap and mortar opening in the clay tiles both repairing and smoothing them for proper draw once the job is completed.
- Since we always do the second application, once the area has dried and is ready, we do it all over again.
With proper installation, HeatShield®’s chimney refractory ceramic allows homeowners to enjoy all of its benefits with confidence for years to come.
Who can do the installation?
Installation does need to be completed by a HeatShield®-certified chimney professional, and rest assured, all of the technicians at Winston’s Chimney Service that perform this service hold this credential.
Winston’s also does more HeatShield® applications than any other chimney company in America. The main reason has to do with how long we’ve been doing this process. As one of the first in the nation to get trained and certified, rest assured we have the experience you’re looking for. In addition, our service area simply has a lot of these liner types, so we’ve truly seen it all.
How Does HeatShield® Protect My Chimney?
HeatShield® is an innovative product developed to help protect chimneys from the buildup of flue gases and creosote – both of which can cause significant damage to the masonry and structure of a chimney.
This revolutionary product uses ceramic technology that reflects heat, acting as a thermal barrier that keeps dangerous temperatures away from the brickwork, mortar joints, and any adjacent combustibles. This protective layer also allows air to move more freely within the chimney, reducing pressure on the structure itself.
Unlike traditional treatments of sealants or tar, the installation and application process for HeatShield® is reliable and easy, leading to a durable solution for your chimney that won’t need frequent repairs or replacement pieces down the line. All in all, HeatShield® provides an effective solution for protecting your chimney from harmful heat buildup and deterioration.
When Is HeatShield® the Best Choice for Chimney Relining Repairs?
HeatShield® is one of the best choices for chimney relining repair in the Mid-Atlantic for clay tile flue chimney liners because it meets, and even exceeds, UL-tested standards, providing unbeatable protection from the dangers of heat transfer. It is designed to coat the inside of your chimney, sealing any gaps, as well as replacing sections that have become linearly damaged or deteriorated.
Choose HeatShield® when you need a relining material that can stand up to extreme temperatures, and savor the peace of mind of knowing that you are protecting your home and your family from potential hazards. With reliable longevity and durability, this is an ideal choice for those who want their chimney system to last.
Can HeatShield® Be Used on All Types of Chimneys?
HeatShield® is a masonry chimney restoration product that can be used to bring older and badly damaged chimneys back to life – while providing added protection against heat transfer in the process.
Depending on the specific needs of the chimney, HeatShield® can be used on pre-existing masonry and clay tile flues, both inside and outside of the home. It has been developed for use in all kinds of masonry chimneys, making it easy for any homeowner who owns a fireplace to treat their chimney with the protection it deserves.
Overall, whether you have unlined brickwork, or another masonry chimney system, HeatShield® can provide you with reliable protection against extreme temperatures that may otherwise damage your property.
How Long Does a HeatShield® Chimney Liner Last?
Purchasing a HeatShield® chimney liner repair system is an investment that can last many years. In fact, with proper maintenance and committed use of the product, a HeatShield® chimney liner can last for more than 20 years and carries a lifetime warranty. Just make sure you get the annual inspections of the liner from a certified tech, so that the warranty does not expire.
Incorporating HeatShield® products into your chimney system will not only shield your home from excess heat or hazardous fumes, but should lengthen the lifespan of the system as well. Moreover, since the HeatShield® is less burdensome to install than most other liners out there – and is durable enough to withstand high levels of corrosion – it’s one of the best choices when replacing older liners.
How Much Does Chimney Relining Cost?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the cost of HeatShield® relining repair, as every project is unique. Factors such as the size and height of the chimney, the number of angles or bends in its route, and the structures around it all have an impact on how much work will be involved.
The best way to assess the cost and compare it to other options for your chimney system is to call Winston’s Chimney Service or reach out online, and let one of our certified and trained chimney specialists come out and conduct an inspection of the system. We’ll give you some options, so you and your family can make the best decision for your situation.
How to Choose the Best Chimney Relining Professional for HeatShield®?
Choosing a chimney relining professional with experience in HeatShield® is an important decision, and there are a few key elements that should be taken into consideration.
- It’s best to look for an experienced professional who has had ongoing training in keeping up with advancements in HeatShield®, as well as any new chimney relining information. Look for techs who attend seminars and workshops, as this will ensure they know the best techniques that are available.
- Additionally, look for a professional who belongs to relevant associations related to chimney relining, such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). This is another way to guarantee the person you hire is working with high standards and engaging in the safest practices while working on your chimney.
- Ultimately, make sure you exhaustively research every option and select the company who comes highly recommended and assures that their work is top quality. Check out reviews, ask around, and you can even reach out to the company and ask for testimonials. With these steps taken, you can be sure your chimney will be properly relined and ready for years of use.
We state all the above because we want you to look at our reviews, our certifications and training, and our commitment to our community in Northern Virginia, Washington, DC, and Maryland.
We have been in business and working on nothing but chimney and venting issues since 1978. As of this writing, that is 45 years of experience in everything around the hearth, chimney, and venting systems in your home. It’s all we specialize in – and we do it well.
Call us today and give us the opportunity to help you with any HeatShield® questions or other issues with your fireplace system.
Go With Experience & Professionalism – Trust Winston’s for the Job
Winston’s has resurfaced over 400 flues since we began using HeatShield® in February of 2010, and the chimneys we’ve worked on have performed magnificently. The Europeans have always been ahead of the United States in chimney and venting products and techniques, and it’s great to know that we are now catching up with them with the help of HeatShield®.
All of our technicians are fully trained and certified in the HeatShield® method and we are one of the most experienced companies in the country using this method. If you have a clay terracotta chimney flue liner, this might be the answer to getting it relined and back to great working order.
Please contact us today by giving us a call or reaching out online. We believe, if given the chance, Winston’s Chimney Service will wow you.
Chimney leak repairs are a frequent service provided by our masonry repairs experts. Ask us for more information today.
