Is your chimney leaking or cracking? Are there missing bricks? A combination of New England weather and failure to keep up with repairs can be a recipe for disaster. Spalling, gaps in the masonry, and missing bricks can impact your chimney’s stability. It may not only have a ghastly appearance, but it could be in danger of collapsing. Imagine the damage a two-ton masonry chimney can cause to your home if it topples over. Horizon’s skilled masons are specialists in rebuilding masonry chimneys from the top of the crown down to the roof.
What is Chimney Rebuilding?
Chimney rebuilding is a process that addresses significant structural issues. It involves removing and replacing damaged brickwork. Unlike minor repairs, a rebuild goes beyond patching and focuses on restoring the chimney’s strength and stability. The benefits include preventing further deterioration. There are two main types of chimney rebuilding:
- Complete Rebuild: This involves reconstructing the entire stack (from the roof up). It’s the most extensive option and is necessary when the chimney has suffered widespread damage. A complete rebuild results in a brand-new chimney, ensuring its longevity and stability.
- Partial Rebuild: This is a more common approach. It typically focuses on the upper portion of the chimney, such as the crown, and is suitable when the damage is limited to a section of the stack that doesn’t require its complete deconstruction.
Other Types of Chimney Repair:
If chimney rebuilding is not necessary, we may recommend other types of chimney repair, such as:
- Tuckpointing
- Repointing
- Individual Brick Replacement
- Chimney cap replacement
- Chase cover installation
Warning Signs Your Chimney May Need Rebuilding:
Recognizing the signs of masonry damage is crucial for preventing further deterioration and structural collapse. Here are some key warning signs that suggest your chimney might need rebuilding:
- Visible Cracks: Cracks in the brickwork, especially large or expanding cracks, weaken the structure and allow water to enter.
- Spalling Bricks: Spalling occurs when the face of the brick flakes or peels away due to moisture and freeze-thaw cycles. Spalling weakens the stack and leads to further damage.
- Missing Bricks: Missing bricks not only affect the chimney’s appearance and compromise its structural integrity but also make your fireplace less efficient and expose your family to increased fire risk and toxic carbon monoxide fumes.
- Mortar Deterioration: Crumbled or missing mortar joints indicate that the chimney’s structural integrity is compromised.
- Water Leaks: Water leaks around the chimney can indicate damage to the flashing, crown, or masonry.
If you notice any of the above warning signs, avoid using any attached heating appliances and contact us for an appointment as soon as possible. A certified technician will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your chimney’s condition and advise whether it needs a minor repair or a complete rebuild. Your peace of mind is our priority.
Expert Chimney Rebuilding Near Me
Horizon Chimney Services—Your Local Hearth Expert. For over three decades, homeowners in Medway MA, Wrentham MA, Norfolk MA, Cumberland RI, and surrounding towns in eastern MA and RI have trusted Horizon for expert chimney rebuilding, tuckpointing, crown repair, smoke chamber repair and more. Our highly skilled masons are dedicated to restoring chimneys to their original strength and splendor. Contact Horizon today to schedule a visit! Remember, promptly addressing chimney problems can save money and prevent potentially dangerous situations.