A cracked or deteriorated flue liner is one of the most serious chimney problems a Cleveland homeowner can face. Without a sound liner, combustion gases — including carbon monoxide — can leak into your home, and heat can transfer to combustible materials in your walls and attic. The traditional solution is a full liner replacement, which can cost $3,000–$6,000 or more.
HeatShield offers a different approach: a proprietary ceramic resurfacing system that seals cracks and restores deteriorated liners from the inside, at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Five Star is one of a limited number of HeatShield-certified contractors in the Cleveland area.
What Is HeatShield?
HeatShield is a UL-listed, ASTM-tested ceramic repair mortar system developed specifically for chimney flue restoration. It's applied by trained, certified contractors using a specialized process that coats the interior of the flue with a seamless layer of ceramic material.
The system has two primary products:
- HeatShield Cerfractory Flue Sealant: Used to fill individual cracks and joints in the flue liner. Applied with a specialized tool that ensures even coverage.
- HeatShield Cerfractory Resurfacer: A full-coverage coating applied to the entire flue interior, creating a smooth, seamless surface that improves draft and seals all deterioration.
When HeatShield Is the Right Solution
HeatShield is appropriate for flue liners that have cracks, gaps, or surface deterioration but still have their basic structural integrity. It is not appropriate for liners that are severely damaged, collapsed, or missing entirely — those require full replacement.
Specifically, HeatShield works well for:
- Terra cotta flue tiles with hairline or moderate cracks
- Mortar joints between flue tiles that have deteriorated
- Flue liners with surface spalling or pitting
- Older liners that are structurally sound but no longer meet current clearance standards
HeatShield vs. Full Liner Replacement: Cost Comparison
| Solution | Typical Cost (Cleveland) | Warranty | Disruption |
|---|---|---|---|
| HeatShield Resurfacing | $1,500–$3,000 | 20-year manufacturer + 5-year workmanship | Minimal — no demolition |
| Stainless Steel Liner | $2,500–$5,000 | Lifetime on liner | Moderate — liner dropped from top |
| Cast-in-Place Liner | $3,000–$6,000 | Varies | Significant — multiple-day process |
The HeatShield Application Process
The process begins with a thorough cleaning and video inspection of the flue. If HeatShield is appropriate, the application typically takes one day:
- Cleaning: The flue is swept and all loose debris removed
- Crack filling: Individual cracks and joint gaps are filled with Cerfractory Sealant
- Resurfacing: The Cerfractory Resurfacer is applied in a continuous coat from bottom to top
- Inspection: A post-application video inspection confirms complete coverage
- Curing: The system requires 24 hours to cure before use
Is HeatShield Right for Your Chimney?
The only way to know if your flue liner qualifies for HeatShield restoration is a Level 2 inspection with video scanning. Five Star performs these inspections throughout Cleveland's west side. If your liner qualifies, we'll show you the video footage and explain exactly what the restoration will address.
Call 216-468-4864 to schedule a flue liner inspection.