Chimney Rebuilding 101

If you own a home with a fireplace, you have enjoyed its warmth and ambiance. Getting your yearly chimney sweep and inspection is an essential part of owning one. The annual maintenance will assure you years of enjoyment.

There are times when a replacement or repair is needed. Often, a chimney will need rebuilding. Our team at Guardian Chimney Sweep knows the importance of having the best professionals to do the job. To learn a little more about rebuilding, we have highlighted the different types so you, as a consumer, are informed.

Types of Chimney Rebuilds

Partial

A partial rebuild consists of removing all the loose bricks, then replacing the mortar and the bricks with new products. If damaged, other components will be replaced at this time as well, such as the chimney cap. Anything that is structurally stable will remain.

Roofline up

The part of the chimney that is exposed most to weather is what is replaced. That would include the flashing up to and including the chimney crown and cap.

Complete Rebuild

If you have a chimney that was somebody did not build to code, leaning or falling apart, you will most likely need a complete rebuild. A full rebuild would mean that the chimney would be taken down and hauled away. This would include the exterior as well as the interior.

Signs That You May Need A Chimney Rebuild

Other than your annual chimney sweep and inspection by Guardian Chimney Sweep, you may also visually see the need for a rebuild. Here is what you should look for.

Chimney Leak

You may observe water stains in the home. On the ceiling or around the chimney and fireplace are signs that you may have water intrusion.

Spalling

If water is an issue, you will experience spalling bricks. This is when the bricks start to chip and crack. You may see chips in the firebox or around the chimney.

White Staining.

This is another sign that there is water entering your chimney. White staining is seen when the bricks are absorbing water. The staining comes from efflorescence, which is from the salts within the bricks. You will see the white staining once the water evaporates from the bricks.

Economical Option

Tuckpointing instead of rebuilding

Tuckpointing is a more economical way of preserving your chimney and its structure.

This is a process where masonry is replaced to bring back strength and stability to the chimney. In the process, our team will remove and replace deteriorated mortar joints between bricks and stones.

Call The Pros Today!

Guardian Chimney Sweep, LLC is a family-owned company; customer service is our top priority. We have provided 1000s of satisfied customers with expert chimney sweep, chimney repair, dryer vent cleaning, and more at fair and competitive rates. In addition to the thorough inspection and cleaning of oil, wood, and gas-burning chimneys, we specialize in the prevention, detection, and correction of chimney and venting system hazards – the kinds of hazards that can endanger the health and safety of your family and home.