Professional Masonry Repair for Chimneys

Signs You Need Masonry Chimney Repairs

Taking quick action when you notice problems with your masonry chimney helps prevent costly structural damage and avoids serious safety risks. Small issues such as hairline cracks or crumbling mortar can escalate over time, especially when exposed to moisture and changing temperatures. Prompt repairs help maintain the integrity of the chimney, improve its performance, and reduce the chance of dangerous situations like chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks.

Here are some clear indicators you should call SureGlow for chimney masonry repairs:

• Cracked or crumbling bricks and mortar: Visible cracks in the bricks or gaps in the mortar joints indicate deterioration. These areas allow moisture to seep in, which weakens the chimney and causes further damage during freeze-thaw cycles.
• Leaning or tilting chimney structure: A chimney that appears to lean or pull away from the house suggests a serious structural issue. This can happen when the foundation shifts or the masonry weakens, and it may lead to collapse if left unchecked.
• White staining (efflorescence): White, powdery stains on the exterior bricks show that moisture is passing through the masonry. This water deposit leaves behind salt and signals that the bricks are absorbing too much moisture, which affects their strength.
• Spalling bricks: Bricks that are flaking, peeling, or popping outward have likely absorbed moisture and begun to deteriorate. Spalling weakens the chimney and often leads to missing bricks or complete sections falling off.
• Deteriorated or missing mortar: When the mortar between bricks begins to wear away or fall out, it exposes the chimney to water damage and reduces overall stability. Repointing the mortar helps restore strength and protects against further wear.
• Rust on the damper or firebox: Rust inside the chimney usually means water is getting in where it shouldn’t. It often points to a damaged chimney cap or flashing and should be addressed before it creates more internal damage.
• Loose or missing chimney cap: A chimney cap protects the flue from rain, animals, and debris. If the cap is loose, rusted, or missing altogether, the inside of the chimney becomes vulnerable to water damage and blockages.
• Interior water damage near the chimney: Stains on ceilings or walls near the chimney can come from leaks caused by cracked masonry, damaged flashing, or missing chimney caps. This type of water intrusion often points back to an exterior chimney issue.
• Unusual odors, especially after rain: A musty or smoky odor coming from the fireplace can mean moisture is trapped in the masonry. Damp creosote or mold may also cause the smell and indicate the chimney is no longer properly sealed.
• Poor fireplace draft or smoke backup: If smoke enters the room instead of rising up the flue, there may be an obstruction or structural problem within the chimney. This type of airflow issue often connects to damaged masonry or an internal collapse.
• Chimney crown cracks: The crown is the concrete slab that seals the top of the chimney. Cracks here allow water to penetrate the chimney, which can lead to internal damage, rust, and mold growth inside the flue.
• Pieces of brick or mortar on the roof or ground: Fallen masonry pieces near the base of the chimney or on the roof often come from advanced deterioration. These signs mean parts of the chimney are breaking off and require immediate attention.
• Increased presence of pests or nesting material: Birds, squirrels, and other animals often enter chimneys through damaged caps or crumbling masonry. Their presence can create blockages and damage the chimney further, especially when nests retain moisture.

Each of these signs points to a specific issue with the chimney’s masonry, and repairing them early helps extend the chimney’s lifespan. Inspections from a trained chimney professional like SureGlow allow you to identify these problems accurately and schedule repairs before the damage worsens.

What Masonry Chimney Repair Services Does SureGlow Stove & Chimney Offer?

We offer an extensive list of chimney, fireplace, and masonry repair services — from brick replacement to waterproofing to mortar tuckpointing and more. Our services address both interior and exterior chimney and fireplace damage.

PriorFire System Installation

If your firebox is drafty, smoky, or simply ready for an upgrade, we can install a PriorFire System. These are considered a retrofit fireplace and are designed to fit snugly within your existing masonry firebox. Constructed of lightweight firebrick, this system is an excellent alternative to traditional masonry repairs because it acquires less heat within the walls of the firebox and, thus, distributes more heat into the living space.

Another plus? This interior firebox repair option can be installed in one day, cutting down on the time you need to have available for a technician to come out to service your chimney.

Masonry Tuckpointing

Tuckpointing is the process of replacing old, crumbling mortar with new, fresh mortar and a clean line called fillet (this is what creates the crisp distinction seen in most brickwork). Commonly confused with “repointing” or “brick pointing,” all of these techniques serve the purpose of reinforcing your masonry work and making it look great.

While bricks provide the sturdy structure of a chimney system, without the mortar fusing them together, their durability is meaningless. Moreover, when those joints between the bricks begin to deteriorate, the entire framework suffers.

Any kind of tuckpointing (be it repointing or traditional) will reinforce the entire structure, allowing it to stand the test of time and ensure that there are no cracks or holes for debris and moisture to get trapped within. The good news is that tuckpointing services should keep your chimney protected for several decades, so once you schedule the repair, you don’t have to worry about it again for quite some time.

Chimney Brick Replacement

While bricks are very durable and built to withstand extensive wear and tear, they are not altogether unbreakable. Be it old age, an external accident, or weather damage, bricks can sometimes just fall apart.

In these cases, it is easiest to just remove the damaged and broken bricks and replace them with newer ones. This requires finding the appropriate size, style, color, and composition of brick to accurately match your current ones, which ensures stability and a cleaner look.

Depending on the number of bricks that would need to be replaced, it may make sense to do a full chimney rebuild, but we’re always happy to come out and take a look at your chimney to determine if brick masonry repairs will suffice.

Chimney Waterproofing

Many don’t realize that brick and mortar are both porous materials, meaning they’ll easily soak up any moisture they’re exposed to. Ensuring that your brickwork is well-prepped to withstand rain, snow, and any other moisture will ultimately guarantee that your chimney lasts longer and that your home stays better protected.

Proper waterproofing requires the knowledge and expertise of an industry professional. Here at SureGlow Stove and Chimney, our certified chimney sweeps are equipped with extensive knowledge and know just what sprays and sealants contain the proper ratio of the four components that enable a chimney to stand strong for years: resistance to air and wind, resistance to water, overall durability, and vapor permeability.

Chimney Crown Repair

Every part of your chimney — both internal and external — plays a huge role in its effectiveness. The chimney crown (the shelf-like slab of concrete on top of the chimney) is no different. Acting as a barrier between the brick and mortar and any natural elements, the crown helps to protect the top of the system from water penetration, as well as direct water away from the exterior sides of your brickwork.

If your chimney crown is cracked, crumbling, or just altogether not there, it’s important to get it checked out and schedule structural masonry repairs to protect the system from extreme water damage.

Stucco Repair

No matter where it is found in or on your home, if your stucco has seen better days, we can repair it. Cracks? Holes? Weird gaps? Or, perhaps it’s just looking run down and raggedy? Our team can chip it off, patch it up, or completely reapply it based on your preferences and your home’s needs.

Have a question about any of our services? Looking to schedule your annual chimney cleaning? Or are you having trouble locating the specific service you think you need? Don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’d love to hear from you and learn how we can help.

What Causes Most Chimney & Masonry Deterioration?

Aside from general wear and tear, there are many other causes of brick and chimney damage. The following are some of the most common causes of chimney masonry problems:

• Moisture/Water Damage. Arguably the most destructive element to chimneys is water. Brick is naturally porous and absorbs most water it is exposed to, eventually causing the material to break down and crumble over time.
• Fire/Excessive Heat. It seems counterintuitive since a chimney’s main purpose is to release the smoke from a curated fire, but over time, excessive heat and exposure to flames (something bricks definitely aren’t built for) can wear on the masonry and cause the brickwork to break down.
• Hidden Defects. As with any other human-made structure, brick chimneys are susceptible to human error. Neglect or accidents during the installation process can contribute to a defective chimney, even if it might not be obvious at first.
• Ineffective or Damaged Liner. Regardless of the type of home heating appliance or chimney you have in your home, a liner is vital for protecting your home and chimney from too much heat or destructive gases. If your chimney’s liner is damaged, or you learn that you don’t have one at all, the bricks of your chimney will suffer.
• Lack of Necessary Components. Contrary to the sleek, simplistic appearance of a brick chimney, building one properly requires a lot of careful work and a handful of necessary components. If your chimney is missing a flue liner, the flashing has some gaps, or your chimney cap is beginning to crack, the system will likely experience difficulties sooner rather than later.

Whatever problems you’re experiencing, the good news is that SureGlow is a trusted local chimney service provider that can handle a number of chimney and fireplace repairs near you. Call us today or reach out online to get started.

Why Are My Chimney Bricks Crumbling?

For as sturdy and durable as the material is, brick is also highly permeable. Be it moisture in the air caused by humidity or an extensive downpour, if not treated and weathered appropriately, bricks will absorb incredibly high volumes of water. Actually, on average, just one brick can absorb between a pound to a pound and a half of water.

So, how does all of this contribute to flaking and crumbling bricks? Well, whenever your chimney gets wet, if it has not been properly waterproofed, the pores in the brickwork absorb as much water as they can. Over time, the water gets trapped and will begin to break down the material from the inside out. This issue is exacerbated by the freeze/thaw process and the seasonal cycles of temperature change.

How Does the Freeze/Thaw Cycle Affect Chimney Masonry?

A phrase used to describe water’s life cycle amidst the natural temperature changes, the freeze/thaw process can greatly affect an untreated chimney. What happens, then, if a chimney has absorbed any amount of water before outside temperatures drop below freezing? As you may have guessed, the small amounts of water contained within the bricks will freeze and naturally expand, trying to create more room for itself. This expansion creates tension and shifts bricks, loosening the mortar joints and creating gaps, cracks, and spaces where more water, moisture, insects, vegetation, and other debris can get in and continue to weaken your system.

Eventually, when temperatures begin to rise, the frozen water pockets will thaw, and the contained water will continue to seep in wherever it can, weakening your masonry with every drop. It’s important to remember that all of this could go unnoticed, especially if your brick chimney was recently built and/or you’ve just moved into this house and are not entirely familiar with the system yet. This is yet another reason why we strongly encourage annual inspections with a professional chimney technician.

If you’re a homeowner looking for chimney services near you, SureGlow has you covered. Reach out to learn more and schedule a masonry repair service with us today.

Can a Brick Chimney Be Repaired or Rebuilt?

Absolutely. The state of damage will determine which services are required to reinstate your masonry to a suitable level of functionality, whether that’s some tuckpointing services, some more extensive repairs, or a full chimney rebuild. However, rest assured that, no matter the damage, we’ll make sure to restore your chimney to its prime operating condition.

Can you rebuild part of a chimney?

It may come as a surprise, but just because one section of your masonry is suffering from water damage or other deterioration, it does not mean the whole system is compromised and must be replaced. (This does not mean, however, that you can use the system just because only part of it is damaged.)

It is very possible for chimney technicians to go in and only replace a section of bricks that are spalling or touch up some mortar in another. If the whole structure is not compromised, it does not have to be entirely rebuilt.

What’s the Difference Between Brick Masonry Repairs and Stone Masonry Repairs?

Our masonry repair process differs between brick chimneys and stone chimneys due to the variations in materials, construction techniques, and aging behavior. Brick chimney repairs follow a more uniform process because bricks are consistent in shape and layout. Our team carefully removes deteriorating mortar, replaces any damaged bricks, and applies fresh mortar that blends with the existing structure. With bricks, matching materials and restoring clean lines tend to be more efficient, allowing us to complete repairs with precision and long-lasting results.

Stone chimneys require a more customized process. Natural stone varies in shape, texture, and placement, so repairs demand a skilled hand to maintain structural integrity and aesthetic consistency. We often work with historic mortar blends, reshape stones by hand, and take extra care to match existing materials. Whether we’re stabilizing loose stones or repointing irregular joints, our team adapts to the specific needs of each stone chimney to deliver strong, seamless results.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Masonry Chimney?

That’s a question that’s hard to give a clear answer to without a further assessment. Until someone from our team has been out to take a look at your chimney and any accumulated damage, there really is no way for us to know what you can expect in terms of cost.

However, we will reiterate: in order for homeowners to get the most “bang for your buck” and avoid costly repair services, we seriously suggest scheduling a chimney inspection each and every year (even if you don’t use your chimney system that often or at all) to save yourself the most time and money in the long run.

If you’re confident you need masonry repairs, give us a call or book online. We’ll take a look at your chimney, and then provide an estimate based on what we’re seeing. We’re proud to serve our community and provide the best and most affordable prices for all of our masonry chimney repair services.

When Is the Best Time of Year for Chimney Repairs?

Considering the burning season is generally in the fall and winter, we usually recommend scheduling chimney repair, inspection, and maintenance services in the spring and summer to ensure you’ll get the best and fullest use out of your chimney system later on.

That being said, if at any point you notice your fireplace or stove chimney is acting strangely or different from how it used to, stop using your system and schedule a time for one of our certified chimney sweeps to come diagnose the problem(s) — no matter the time of year.

Worried About the Cost of Structural Masonry Repairs? Check Out Our Available Financing!

We understand that chimney masonry repairs can be a big investment, especially when they come up unexpectedly. That’s why we offer financing options designed to ease the burden and keep your home safe without putting a strain on your budget. You can choose from several payment plans that work with your financial situation, allowing you to move forward with the repairs you need right away. Our team is here to walk you through the process, answer questions, and help you find the right plan. You won’t need to delay necessary repairs or risk further damage just because of the upfront cost. We’ve made it simple, straightforward, and stress-free to get started.

More Than Masonry Repairs: Other Chimney & Fireplace Services to Consider

Beyond masonry repairs, our chimney and fireplace services cover everything homeowners like you need to prolong the life of their systems. Leaky chimney repairs help stop water damage at the source, protecting both your home’s interior and the structural integrity of your chimney. Once the structure is sealed, regular chimney cleanings remove harmful creosote buildup and improve ventilation, helping to lower fire risks and improve indoor air quality.

To stay ahead of potential issues, we also perform detailed chimney inspections that check for hidden wear, performance concerns, and early signs of deterioration. When it’s time to boost heating efficiency or update the look of your fireplace, our team installs fireplace inserts that provide reliable warmth while maintaining a classic appearance. For chimneys that need internal repair, we offer relining and resurfacing solutions that restore airflow, address flue damage, and ensure safe operation. These services work together to protect your home, improve system performance, and keep your fireplace ready whenever you need it.