Chimney Rebuild
When a chimney is leaning, collapsing or too far gone for repairs to hold, it is rebuilt. It is a major job, so the first question is always whether it is really necessary.
Rebuild is the last answer, not the first
Most chimney damage can be fixed with repointing, brick replacement and a new crown. A rebuild, taking the chimney down and building it again, is for when those cannot do the job. We tell you honestly when repair is enough, and compare the two before you spend on the bigger one. See repointing vs. rebuilding.
Signs a rebuild may be needed
- The chimney leans, bulges or has separated from the house
- Brick is crumbling or spalling across much of the chimney, not just in spots
- Mortar has failed through the thickness of the wall, not only at the surface
- Large cracks run through the masonry and keep growing
- Parts of the chimney have collapsed or are loose
- Earlier repairs have failed because the masonry behind them is unsound
How the decision is made
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| How far does the damage go? | Surface damage can be repaired. Damage through the whole wall may not hold a repair. |
| Why did it fail? | Water, movement or a footing problem. If the cause is not fixed, a rebuild fails too. |
| Is the flue still sound? | A rebuild often means a new liner or reuse of the existing one. |
| Is a partial rebuild enough? | Often only the top section needs to come down. See partial chimney rebuild. |
What a rebuild involves
The chimney is taken down to sound masonry, and the rest is rebuilt with new brick or reclaimed brick that matches, new mortar, a new crown and flashing and a cap. If the flue needs a liner, that is dealt with at the same time. The aim is a chimney that will not need this again, with the water entry points fixed. Permits and other requirements vary by town, and we tell you what applies.
Because a rebuild is expensive and disruptive, a second opinion on the decision is fair. We explain what we found so you can weigh it.
What the work involves
How a rebuild goes
- InspectWe examine how far the damage goes.
- CompareWe lay out repair and rebuild side by side.
- RebuildThe unsound masonry is rebuilt, with crown, flashing and cap.
- CheckWe confirm that the chimney is sound and finished.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Is my chimney beyond repair?
Often not. An inspection tells you. We recommend a rebuild only when repair will not hold.
Will the new brick match the old?
We aim to match as closely as possible and tell you what to expect.
Can the fireplace be used during a rebuild?
No. The chimney is out of service until the work is done.
Do I need a permit?
Often. Requirements vary by town, and we tell you what applies.
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.