Chimney sweeping
Thorough cleaning for a safer, more efficient fireplace. Removes creosote, the leading cause of chimney fires — once a year for a chimney in regular use.
Masonry repair
Repointing, tuckpointing and brick replacement. We photograph what we found before any work is agreed.
Why is my chimney letting water in?
Almost always the mortar joints, the flashing, or the crown. Water gets in, freezes, expands, and takes the brick apart from the inside — which is why a small crack becomes an expensive rebuild if it is left.
What that means
Mortar fails before brick does. Repointing rakes out the weathered joints and fills them fresh; tuckpointing is the same job finished to match the original lines. Both stop water getting behind the face of the brick.
Flashing is where the chimney meets the roof. It is the single most common leak point in the whole house.
Spalling — brick faces flaking off — means water has already been getting in and freezing. Individual bricks can be cut out and replaced early; left alone, it becomes a rebuild.
Signs you need this
- Staining on the ceiling or wall near the chimney breast
- Pieces of brick or mortar in the fireplace or on the roof
- A damp, musty smell after rain
- Mortar joints you can scrape out with a fingernail
If any of those sound familiar, ring us — it costs nothing to ask, and most of these are cheaper to deal with early.
Other things we do
Waterproofing
Protect your chimney from water damage and deterioration. A breathable repellent on sound brick, after any repairs, so weather stays on the outside.
Crown and cap repair
New crowns and caps built to last. The crown throws water clear of the brick; the cap keeps rain, leaves and animals out of the flue.
Chimney liners
Stainless steel liners for safety and efficiency. Relining a damaged or unlined flue so combustion gases stay inside the chimney where they belong.
Inspections
Level 1, 2 and 3 inspections to ensure your chimney is safe and up to code, with a written report. Level 2 is what a house sale or an insurance claim usually needs.
Book masonry repair
Tell us what you need and we will ring you back to confirm a time.