Find out the costs and benefits of repointing your chimney. Get the essential tips to keep safe and prolong its life. Read now!
What is Repointing a Chimney?
Repointing a chimney is the process of removing old mortar from between the bricks and replacing it with new mortar. Over time weather, seasonal changes and old age cause the mortar joints between the bricks to deteriorate, compromising the structural integrity of the entire chimney structure. While the bricks and the chimney stack may last for decades, the existing mortar needs maintenance or repair much sooner. Repointing not only strengthens the whole chimney structure but also prevents moisture from getting into the chimney system which can cause damage to the flue, chimney crown and other parts.
Common Causes of Mortar Failure
Mortar failure in masonry chimneys can be due to many factors, exposure to moisture, extreme weather conditions and poor quality mortar. When chimney’s mortar joints deteriorate they create small cracks and gaps which allow water to enter the chimney masonry, causing spalling, structural weakening and in extreme cases partial chimney rebuild or full rebuild. Poor workmanship or wrong type of mortar also accelerates the deterioration of chimney mortar. Addressing these issues early on through timely chimney repairs and joint repairs can prevent extensive damage.
Benefits of Repointing a Chimney
Repointing a chimney or re pointing a chimney has many benefits that go beyond cosmetic. By addressing the crumbling mortar and weakened joints repointing strengthens the surrounding bricks and chimney structure. A good repointing job also improves the look of older bricks in the brick chimney and prevents further damage from moisture infiltration. By sealing the mortar joints repointing can protect the whole chimney system and reduce the need for future chimney masonry work.
Chimney Inspection and Assessment
A thorough inspection of the mortar joints, brickwork and chimney cap is necessary to identify potential problems before they get worse. Annual chimney inspections can reveal small cracks or gaps in the chimney masonry that needs to be repaired. If the chimney structure is compromised a partial chimney rebuild or tuckpointing may be needed. Catching these issues early on through regular chimney masonry work can save homeowners money on future repairs and avoid the cost of full rebuild.
Repointing vs Rebuilding: What’s the Difference?
Chimney repointing and chimney rebuilding serves different purposes when it comes to maintaining the structural integrity of the chimney. Repointing is grinding out the old mortar joints and filling them with new mortar, this is good for superficial or minor structural damage to the exterior masonry of the chimney. But when the whole chimney structure is compromised like extensive damage to the chimney stack a partial rebuild or full rebuild may be needed to restore the chimney’s stability. Unlike repointing a full and complete rebuild addresses the whole structure, the bricks, flue and chimney crown.
What is Tuckpointing?
The technique of tuckpointing was made popular in 18th Century England. Tuckpointing is performed as a decorative or cosmetic procedure. Tuckpointing restores the appearance of chimney masonry but is not a structural repair. Tuckpointing typically involves applying two contrasting colors of mortar—one to match the brick color and another thin line to create the appearance of narrow, precise joints, which enhances the aesthetic of the masonry. Tuckpointing is a masonry repair technique that involves removing damaged or deteriorating mortar from between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. This process restores the structural integrity and appearance of brickwork by improving stability and preventing water infiltration.
Cost of Repointing a Chimney
Several factors affect the cost of repointing, the extent of mortar joint damage, type of bricks used and size of the chimney. A bigger chimney or one with more damage will require more labor and material to repair and will cost more. The cost of repointing a chimney varies depending on the size, condition and location of the chimney and the extent of mortar joint deterioration. Repointing is less expensive than rebuilding and can cost between $550 to $2,500. It’s much cheaper than a full rebuild so repointing is a good option for homeowners who want to extend the life of their chimney. Repointing the mortar joints can save you money in the long run by addressing the issues early on before they get worse.
Understanding Chimney Repair Cost:
- Chimney repairs can cost anywhere from $150 to $7,000.
- Chimney liner repairs generally range from $65 to $100 per square foot.
- Chimney liner repairs generally range from $65 to $100 per square foot.
- Extensive wood rot repairs can cost $2,500 to $4,000 or more.
- Chimney cap repairs usually cost between $150 and $385.
- Repairing a leaning chimney can cost between $1,250 and $4,000.
- Brick chimneys usually cost between $300 and $1,500 to repair.
- The type of repair needed is the biggest factor affecting chimney repair costs.
- Repairing a stucco chimney can range from $800 to $4,000.
- Labor costs for chimney repairs usually range from $50 to $200 per hour.
- Emergency chimney repairs generally cost between $100 and $300 per hour.
Choosing the Right Chimney Contractor
When choosing a contractor for repointing, make sure to choose one with experience in chimney masonry services. A licensed, insured contractor will restore the chimney’s structural integrity with high quality mortar and professional techniques. The repointing process involves grinding out the old mortar between the bricks and filling the mortar joints with new mortar. This can take several days depending on the size of the chimney and the extent of the repair. A professional contractor will use special pointing tools to carefully fill the mortar joints with cement to ensure a solid repair that supports the chimney structure. They may also recommend applying a sealant to the exterior masonry after repointing.
Summary
Chimney repointing is a must do to maintain the whole surrounding brick chimney’s structural integrity, prevent costly repairs and have a safe and functional chimney system. Regular maintenance, annual inspections and chimney sweeps will address small issues early on and prevent the need for full chimney rebuild. By hiring a GMT Home Services professional for chimney masonry services you can extend the life of your brick chimneys and have a maintained and secured chimney.
FAQs
1. Can you repoint a chimney yourself?
Yes, you can, but you need masonry skills and to work at heights.
2. How much does it cost to repoint a top chimney?
Repointing the top of a chimney is $500-$1,200 depending on the extent of damage and local labour rates.
3. How much would it cost to repoint a chimney?
Full repointing for a chimney can range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the chimney’s size and condition.
4. Is it better to Repoint or rebuild a chimney?
Repoint for minor wear, rebuild if the chimney is structurally damaged.
5. Can I repoint my own chimney?
Yes, you can if you have masonry skills, but it takes patience and safety precautions.
6. Is it difficult to repoint a chimney?
Repointing is hard especially on older or taller chimneys as it requires precise work and handling tools at height.
