Chimneys are traditionally of two types, Masonry or Factory Built. In either case stone and bricks may be involved as either a structural element or as a veneer. When rain water is absorbed into the stone or bricks, or when it collects on the small bed joints of the masonry chimney, it will freeze and thaw in a repeating and systematic way and destroy the integrity of the chimney. All masonry chimney construction materials will suffer accelerated deterioration as a result of prolonged contact with water. Masonry materials deteriorate quickly and the moisture that has penetrated the materials periodically freezes and expands causing undue stress to masonry chimney. Water in the chimney also causes rust in steel, sheetmetal, and cast iron, weakening or destroying the metal.

Water penetration can cause interior and exterior damage to your home and masonry chimney including:

Deteriorated metal or masonry fireboxes

Rotting wood and ruined drywall

Water stained walls and ceiling

Debri falling into clean out area

Stained chimney pipe or bricks

Rusted damper and poor operation

Decayed exterior mortar

Cracked and deteriorated flue liner

Leaning chimney structure

Chimney settles due to water eroding foundation

A chimney crown is a protection for the masonry construction beneath it by helping to prevent the need for fireplace chimney repairs & chimney rebuilding. It is the top element of a masonry chimney and sheds the water off the chimney and sometimes down the face or else it drips free. These crowns or splays are constructed from common mortar mix, the same mixture used to lay the bricks of the chimney. Masonry chimneys are often the most abused by the harsh elements from outside. Both the high heat and corrosive nature of soot and creosote make regular masonry maintenance important.

Masonry Restoration

Whether you are looking for tuck pointing or chimney rebuilding, Fireplace Doctor Chimney specializes in a wide range of restoration services.

Chimney Restoration & Rebuilding – Constant exposure to harsh outdoor elements can lead to deterioration of bricks and mortar or the entire chimney over time. Our skilled, experienced masons
can help identify the issue and determine the best solution.

Damper Repair – A damper that works properly is critical to keep heat from escaping up your chimney. It’s important to repair your damper now to avoid losing any additional money on wasted
heat.

Firebox Repair – If you notice loose or cracked bricks or eroded mortar joints, it is likely in time for repair. We can help restore this integral part to your fireplace system to get it functioning like brand new.

Flaking Bricks – The chimney bricks may flake or eventually fall off due to wear and tear. We can help stop the deterioration and restore bricks, ultimately avoiding more excessive repairs later.

Flashing Repairs – The flashing needs to work properly to prevent water seepage into the house. When sections of the flashing have lifted, our skilled technicians input a flashing seal to repair and prevent any future water damage in your home.

Mortar Crown Repair – The Crown, a cement slab located at the top of the chimney can deteriorate over the years. We can treat minor crown repairs or completely rebuild the crown if necessary.

Why Should I have a technician do my Masonry Fireplace Inspection or Repair?
When the masonry work on your chimney begins to show signs of deterioration (the mortar joints are worn away from the weather), chances are you’ll need to have some brick fireplace repair done in order to repair it. Working up high on ladders can pose a risk. Chimney Sweeps technicians take time to secure their ladders and prepare for the climb, taking the necessary tools up with them. Older and newer brick and stone chimneys have different degrees of hardness and water permeability, and the same is true for mortar, and the masonry crown. In addition to brick fireplace repairs at the top of the chimney and in the firebox, your Certified technician will also inspect the outside of your chimney.

We are specialized in Chimney sweep, chimney liner, chimney repair, fireplace repair, fireplace damper repair, chimney inspection. Contact us at (201) 981-8382 to set up an appointment today. Remember that all of our work is Satisfaction Guaranteed. NCSG