In many cases the chimney structure becomes deteriorated, especially where it is exposed to the outside. This is usually not caused by the outside elements, as you may suspect. Chimneys generally deteriorate from the inside out, and from the top down. This is usually caused by the acidic moister coming from modern day appliances. As the flue gases cool toward the top of the chimney, especially where the chimney is out side and very cold, these flue gases condensate, and the inside of the chimney becomes saturated with acidic moister.

Now traditional clay flue tiles are porous and they soak in this acidic moister, which deteriorates them very quickly. Once this moister reaches the masonry structure that to breaks down. So when the outside of the chimney is showing signs of deterioration, usually the inside is much worst. We at the Chimney Man specialize in fixing the problem permanently. So in cases like this we will recommend not only repairing the masonry structure, but also fixing the problem from the inside out to insure a permanent fix.

We do all kinds of masonry repairs including block, brick, stone and cultured stone. Sense chimneys are very unique, because of being attacked from the inside and out, we take all the necessary precautions to make our repairs last for a long, long time.

Rebuilding

Tearing down and rebuilding an existing chimney is necessary sometimes to meet code standards. Partial tear down and rebuilds can be done if a chimney is structurally sound down to a certain point.  Full tear down and rebuilds occur when your chimney is deteriorated too much for just partial repairs. In each case a careful examination is performed, and our recommendations are proposed.

Re-Pointing

In some cases the brick, or stone is in good shape, however the mortar in between is deteriorated. In this case replacing old deteriorated mortar with fresh mortar can be done if the chimney is still structurally sound, and can be saved by re-pointing.  The old mortar is removed by diamond cutting blades, or chipped out, and new mortar is squeezed into the joints. This provides structural support and beauty to an existing masonry structure. The key to a lasting re-pointing job is making sure to remove enough old mortar to get down to a solid starting point, and having the proper mortar mix to fill the joints back in.

Crown Repair

The crown (or very top) of your chimney is very important and must remain intact and waterproof.  If there are any cracks in the crown, water can leak down those cracks and than freeze, causing extensive water and ice damage.  We offer services of crown removal, and replacement with fresh concrete, or crown sealing, which is the sealing of the top of the crown with a waterproof flexible membrane that comes with a 10 yr. warranty and ensures that this part of your chimney stays leak free.

Damper Repair

Throat dampers in fireplaces are made of metal and when heated they usually warp and allow a lot of heat loss during winter months.  We offer the installation of tight sealing flue top dampers that will prevent the loss of hot or cold air through your chimney.