What chimney repairs involve
A chimney stack sits higher and more exposed than anything else on the roof, so it is often the first place weather damage shows. Repairs can include raking out and repointing weathered mortar joints, replacing damaged bricks, renewing the flaunching (the mortar cap the pots sit in) and re-bedding or replacing loose chimney pots.
Where a stack has become unstable or badly eroded, it may need taking down and rebuilding from roof level. The lead flashing where the chimney meets the roof is checked and renewed as needed, and cowls or caps can be fitted to keep rain and birds out, with ventilation for disused flues.
Signs your chimney needs attention
- Crumbling or missing mortar between the bricks
- Cracked flaunching, or pots that look loose or out of line
- A stack that appears to lean
- Damp patches or staining on the chimney breast inside
- Bits of brick, mortar or debris in the fireplace, gutter or on the roof
- Plants growing from the stack, or lifted lead around its base
How Ben approaches it
Chimney work needs safe access, so the first step is a proper look and an honest view of what is needed: a repoint, new flaunching, new lead, or a rebuild. Ben will show you photos so you can see the condition of the stack for yourself.
Google reviewer Malcolm describes chimney and flat-roof repairs carried out with advanced products and being kept informed at each stage, which is how Ben likes to work on every job. If the tiles around the chimney also need attention, they can be dealt with at the same time. See tiling repairs.