Partial or full-height chimney rebuilds in Watergate
Where the stack has moved, we explain what should be assessed before a rebuild is priced.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Chimney problems that call for rebuilding
- A crown broken into loose pieces
- Masonry too loose to hold new flashing
- A bulge in the chimney face
- A top section that sways in the wind
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Where a rebuild starts and where it stops
New brick for the courses that stay
In a partial rebuild, the new brick sits directly above the old, so the match matters. Size is as important as color, since a brick that is taller or longer shows in every joint line.
We look for new brick close to yours and bring samples to compare against the retained courses. Where no close match exists, we explain the options, including reusing sound original bricks on the most visible faces. The estimate names the brick chosen and where it will go.
Saving sound bricks from the old stack
Original bricks from the dismantled section can often be reused. Each one is cleaned of old mortar and checked for cracks, broken faces and softness. Only sound units go back into the new work.
Reused brick helps the rebuilt section blend with the masonry below. It is more work than laying new brick, since each unit must be cleaned and checked, and the estimate reflects that. Where there are not enough sound units, we mix in new or salvaged brick and explain where they will sit.
A shattered crown over loose courses
When the crown has broken into pieces, water reaches the top courses with every rain. The bricks under a failed crown are often loose, soaked and stained by the time the crown is noticed.
Replacing the crown alone would sit it on masonry that cannot hold it. In that case, the damaged top courses are rebuilt and a new crown is formed over them. We check how deep the damage goes before setting the removal line. The new crown then goes on over masonry that can support it for the long term.
Smoke problems and what a rebuild can change
If the fireplace smoked into the room before the rebuild, the rebuild may help, or it may not. A top below the code's height rule or a flue narrowed by damage can be corrected as part of the rebuild.
Other causes, such as a room that is too airtight or a fireplace opening too large for the flue, lie outside the rebuild. We explain what we think caused the problem and what the rebuild can realistically change before you approve it.
Priced steps of a partial rebuild
- Corrosion-resistant ties where the chimney needs them
- Roof covering protection
- Appliance vent disconnection coordinated
- Mortar smears cleaned from finished brick
Your chimney rebuild questions
Can I use the fireplace while the rebuild is under way?
No. The fireplace stays out of use during the rebuild and while the new masonry cures. We tell you when it can be lit again, based on the materials used and the weather.
Can the rebuild be split into stages?
Partly. Loose masonry can be made safe first and the rebuild scheduled later. Once removal starts, though, the section is usually rebuilt in one sequence, so the chimney is not left open.
Will a rebuild change how my fireplace draws?
It should not make it worse. The rebuilt flue is kept to a size that suits the fireplace, and the top follows the code's height rule. If draft was a problem before, we explain what the rebuild can and cannot change.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Fireplace Hearth RepairRepair the hearth surface after considering the supporting assembly and fireplace requirements.
- Chimney Leak RepairFind the chimney water entry point and plan a repair before restoring the damaged finish.
- Fireplace RestorationCoordinate fireplace repairs while preserving suitable existing features and defining the intended use.
- Chimney Crown RepairRepair the damaged chimney top with an approach matched to the crown and supporting masonry.
- Chimney Damper Repair and ReplacementRestore a usable damper mechanism after checking the plate, frame and control linkage.
Proudly American
Local service. Careful repairs. A fireplace worth coming home to.
Call Now (645) 465-4171We received your request
Our team will contact you to arrange your inspection.
Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo