Chimney Chase Repair
A framed chimney is a wooden box around a metal flue. Water that gets into it rots the framing from the inside, so repair starts with finding where it comes in.
What a chase is
A chase, or framed chimney, is a wood-framed enclosure, often clad in siding, stucco or metal, around a prefabricated metal flue. It is common on factory-built fireplaces. Unlike masonry, wood does not tolerate water, so a leak in a chase becomes a structural problem quickly.
Signs of trouble
- Rust streaks running down the sides
- Soft, stained, bubbling or peeling siding or paint
- Gaps or cracks in the cladding, flashing or trim
- A rusted or damaged cover. See chase cover replacement.
- Water stains on the ceiling or wall near the chase
- Sagging, or a chase that looks out of square
- Animals getting in through gaps
Where water gets in
| Place | What happens |
|---|---|
| The cover at the top | A rusted or lifted cover sends water into the chase |
| Flue and cap | Water runs down the pipe into the framing |
| Flashing | The joint with the roof or wall leaks |
| Cladding and seams | Cracks, gaps and poor sealing let water in sideways |
| Base and trim | Water collects and rots the bottom of the chase |
How we approach it
We inspect the chase and the parts on and around it to find the source of the water and the extent of the damage. If the framing has been affected, we explain what is involved in repairing it. Repairs focus on the chimney chase and its parts, such as the cover, flashing, flue connection and cladding, and we say honestly when damage extends beyond that to the roof or interior. See also chimney leak repair.
A chase that has leaked for a long time can hide serious rot. A small stain can sit on top of much larger damage.
What the work involves
How a chase repair goes
- InspectWe trace the water to its source.
- AssessWe find out how much of the chase is affected.
- RepairWe fix the cause and the damaged parts.
- SealWe finish so the chase sheds water.
Related services
Chase Covers
The top of the chase.
Learn moreChase Cover Replacement
Replace a failing cover.
Learn moreFlashing Repair
Where the chase meets the roof.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have a chase?
Your chimney is a framed box clad in siding, stucco or metal instead of brick, with a metal lid on top.
Can rotted framing be repaired?
Often, by replacing the damaged sections. The extent depends on how long water has been getting in.
Is a rusted chase cover urgent?
It is worth dealing with promptly, since water in a chase causes damage that is hidden.
Do you repair interior damage?
We tell you about it so you can have it addressed. Our work is on the chimney and chase.
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.