Partial Chimney Rebuild
The top of a chimney takes the worst of the weather, so it often fails long before the rest. Rebuilding only the damaged section can be the sensible middle ground between repair and a full rebuild.
Why the top fails first
The upper part of a chimney is exposed on every side, with no roof or wall to shelter it. Water gets in through the crown, the mortar joints and the brick, and freeze and thaw does the rest. It is common to find the top few feet badly damaged, while the lower chimney, protected by the roof and the house, is still in good shape.
Signs a partial rebuild may fit
- Bricks at the top are loose, crumbling or missing, but the lower chimney is sound
- Mortar is gone to depth in the upper courses
- The crown is broken up and the bricks beneath it are damaged
- Earlier repointing did not hold at the top
- The chimney sways or feels loose at the top
- Water damage is concentrated near the roofline and above
Repair, partial rebuild or full rebuild
| Option | When it fits |
|---|---|
| Repointing or brick repair | Damage is on the surface, and most of the brick is sound |
| Partial rebuild | The upper courses are failing, but the lower chimney is sound |
| Full rebuild | The damage is throughout or the structure has moved |
What a partial rebuild involves
The damaged courses are carefully taken down to sound masonry, and rebuilt with matching brick and new mortar. A new crown is formed, the flashing is checked and a cap is fitted. We look at the flue at the same time, since the top of the liner is often damaged along with the masonry.
Rebuilding the top without fixing the water source is a short-term fix. We check the crown, cap and flashing as part of the work.
What the work involves
How a partial rebuild goes
- InspectWe find how far down the damage goes.
- DecideWe compare repair, partial and full rebuild.
- RebuildThe damaged section is taken down and rebuilt.
- FinishCrown, flashing and cap are completed.
Related services
Chimney Rebuild
When the whole chimney needs it.
Learn moreChimney Crown Repair
The slab at the top.
Learn moreChimney Repointing
When joints are the problem.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How much of the chimney is rebuilt?
Only what is unsound. We take it down to good masonry and tell you how far that goes.
Is it cheaper than a full rebuild?
It involves less work, so it usually costs less. We explain what is involved.
Will it match the rest of the chimney?
We aim to, with matching brick and mortar. Weathered brick may look slightly different at first.
Is the fireplace usable during the work?
No, not until it is finished.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.