What this covers
Most chimney damage starts at the top, where the crown cracks and lets water into the masonry. The company inspects the chimney from the roof and the flue from inside, then repairs what has failed: a new concrete crown poured with an overhang and a drip edge, repointed joints, spalled bricks replaced, a stainless cap to keep rain and animals out, and flashing resealed or replaced where the chimney meets the roof. Inside, a cracked flue liner is relined with stainless steel or a cast-in-place system, and a damper that no longer closes is replaced. Work is done from scaffolding or a roof platform, with the mason tied off.
When to call
- Pieces of brick or crown found on the roof or in the yard.
- Water stains on the ceiling or wall beside the chimney, or a damp smell from the fireplace.
- White staining on the brick, or mortar missing above the roofline.
- A chimney inspection that found a cracked liner or flue tiles.
What to expect
- InspectThe crown, brick, joints, cap and flashing are checked from the roof and the flue from inside.
- MasonryThe crown is rebuilt, joints repointed and damaged brick replaced.
- Cap and flashingA cap is fitted and the flashing resealed or replaced with the roofer.
- FlueA damaged liner is relined and the damper repaired, then the chimney is ready for use.
Get a certified company
Look up a certified company by ZIP code. Every company's license, insurance and trades are verified before it is listed, and placement is never paid.
Questions people ask
What is a chimney crown?
The concrete slab on top of the chimney that sheds water away from the brick. When it cracks, water runs into the masonry and freezes, and the damage works downward.
Why does the brick turn white?
Efflorescence: salts left behind when water moves through the masonry and evaporates. It is a sign the chimney is wet, not a stain to clean off and forget.
Does a chimney need a cap?
A cap keeps rain, leaves and animals out of the flue and includes a spark screen. Most chimneys without one show water damage in the firebox and smoke chamber.
Related: Chimney rebuilding · Tuckpointing · Chimney flashing repair · All concrete and masonry
This page describes what the service involves. The company you hire sets the scope, the schedule and the price, and your contract is with that company. We verify credentials and collect reviews from real jobs. We do not guarantee any company's workmanship. Safety steps are general guidance. When in doubt, leave the home and call 911.