Chimney Restoration
An older chimney can often be brought back to sound, good-looking condition without rebuilding it. Restoration deals with the whole chimney at once instead of one problem at a time.
What restoration means
Repair fixes a problem. Restoration takes a chimney that has been neglected or weathered for years and addresses its condition as a whole, so that it is sound, watertight and in keeping with the house. It is a plan, not a single job.
When a chimney is a candidate
- There are several problems at once, such as failing mortar, damaged brick and a cracked crown
- The chimney is old and has never been properly maintained
- You want to keep the existing brick and the look of the house
- Spot repairs keep failing because the underlying condition has not been dealt with
- You are preparing a home for sale or about to move in
What it can include
| Element | What is done |
|---|---|
| Masonry | Repointing and brick replacement with matching materials |
| Crown | Repair or rebuilding of the top slab |
| Flashing | Repair or replacement at the roof |
| Cap and chase cover | New cap or cover to keep out water and animals |
| Flue | Inspection and, where needed, liner repair or replacement |
| Waterproofing | A water repellent where the masonry suits it. See chimney waterproofing. |
How we plan it
We start with a full inspection, so that the plan reflects what is actually wrong. We then lay out the work in order of importance: what protects the structure first, and what is cosmetic. You can do everything at once, or in stages. If a full rebuild proves necessary, we tell you plainly. See chimney rebuild.
Restoration is worth doing when the structure is sound. If it is not, spending on appearance is a poor use of money, and we say so.
What the work involves
How a restoration goes
- InspectWe examine the whole chimney, inside and out.
- PlanWe set out the work in order of priority.
- RestoreThe work is carried out in the agreed order.
- ProtectWe finish with measures that keep water out.
Related services
Chimney Repair
Individual repairs.
Learn moreChimney Rebuild
When restoration is not enough.
Learn moreChimney Inspection
Where it starts.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
How is restoration different from repair?
Repair addresses one problem. Restoration addresses the chimney as a whole, according to a plan.
Can it be done in stages?
Yes. We set the priorities, and you decide how to phase it.
Will the chimney look new?
It will look cleaner and sounder. Matching old brick exactly is not always possible.
Does restoration include the flue?
Where the inspection shows it is needed, yes.
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.