Chimney Brick and Masonry Repair
Brick that flakes, cracks or loosens is telling you water has been getting in. Good masonry repair fixes the brick and the reason it failed.
What damaged chimney brick looks like
- Faces of the brick flaking or popping off (spalling)
- Cracks running through bricks or along mortar lines
- Loose or missing bricks, especially near the top
- White powder on the surface
- A chimney that leans, bulges or has stepped cracks
- Mortar that has receded or crumbles
Why brick fails
Brick is durable, but a chimney is more exposed than any wall in the house. It gets rain from all sides, freezes at night and warms in the sun. Water that has entered the brick or the joints expands as it freezes, and over many winters that breaks the face off the brick. Salts carried by the water leave white stains as it dries. Structural movement and a failed crown or flashing add to the damage. Our guide on spalling and freeze-thaw explains the cycle.
Repair options
| Condition | What usually fits |
|---|---|
| Joints worn but bricks sound | Repointing: replace the mortar |
| A few damaged bricks | Replace those bricks and repoint around them |
| Widespread spalling in one area | Replace the affected section of brick |
| Brick failing along the whole chimney, or leaning | A larger rebuild may be needed; we assess it before recommending anything |
| Cracks from movement | Find out why it moved before repairing it |
Matching the existing brick and mortar color is part of the job. We tell you honestly what can be matched closely and what will be noticeable.
Fix the cause too
Replacing brick without fixing what let the water in is a short-term repair. We check the crown, cap and flashing, and recommend work on them when they contributed. For the larger picture see chimney leak repair and chimney repair.
Spalling brick is not only cosmetic. Each bad brick lets in more water, and the damage speeds up.
What the work involves
How a brick repair goes
- InspectWe assess how much brick is affected and why.
- ExplainWe show which bricks need replacing and which can stay.
- RepairDamaged brick is replaced and joints are repointed.
- ProtectWe address the water source so the repair lasts.
Related services
Chimney Repointing
Replace failing mortar joints.
Learn moreChimney Crack Repair
Cracks in brick, mortar, crown and stucco.
Learn moreChimney Crown Repair
Stop water at the top.
Learn moreChimney Rebuild
When repair will not hold.
Learn morePartial Chimney Rebuild
Rebuild only the failing top section.
Learn moreChimney Waterproofing
A breathable repellent on sound masonry.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between brick repair and repointing?
Repointing replaces mortar in the joints. Brick repair replaces damaged bricks. Many jobs need both.
Can spalled brick be left alone?
The damage tends to spread, because the exposed brick absorbs more water. It is better to address it.
Will new brick match the old?
We do our best, and tell you what to expect. Old brick weathers, so an exact match is not always possible.
Do I need a rebuild?
Only if the damage is widespread or structural. We assess it first and explain why.
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.