Chimney mortar repair done joint by joint in Melrose Park
Chimney mortar repair for homes in Melrose Park, planned joint by joint from the inspection.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
When chimney joints start to give way
- Earlier repointing popping out in strips
- Mortar pieces on the roof around the stack
- Dark wet patches that linger on the brick
- Water inside after rain on one side
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Getting chimney mortar joints right in Melrose Park
Spot repointing or a whole chimney face
Federal preservation guidance prefers repointing only the areas that need it. Brick industry guidance also suggests repointing every joint in an affected area, because it is hard to tell which joints admit water. Both points apply on a chimney.
We draw the boundary around the failed area and the joints near it, not the whole chimney by default. Where damage is scattered across a face, repointing that face can be the sensible choice. You see the reasoning and the areas marked before you approve anything.
A free inspection before any raking
Joint work starts with a free inspection. We look at each face of the chimney, scrape-test suspect joints and check the brick. We also look at the crown, cap and flashing that could be feeding water in. The findings are explained on site.
You then receive a free written estimate with each area and item listed. There is no charge for the visit and no obligation to go ahead. If the joints are sound, we say so and tell you what signs would mean it is time to call again.
Looking at chimney joints from the ground
You can check the joints without climbing. Brick industry maintenance guidance suggests binoculars for looking at masonry high on a building. From the yard, look for joints that sit deep behind the brick face, dark lines of missing mortar or plants growing from the chimney.
Note which side looks worst and tell us when you call. Stay off the roof. A closer look is part of our free inspection, and the view from the ground is enough to help us plan where to begin.
Getting the site ready for joint work
A little preparation makes repointing smoother. Clear access to the base of the chimney, move vehicles parked beside it and bring in anything fragile from that side of the house. Keep pets indoors while raking is under way.
Tell us about plants you want protected, outdoor vents and any roofing that marks easily. We bring covers and protection for the rest. If you need to leave during the work, let us know how to reach you in case a question comes up.
Separate lines for joints and bricks
- Dust cleared from the raked joints
- Tooling at thumbprint hardness
- Protection for windows, roof and plantings
- Dust control and covers during raking
What people ask about chimney mortar
Can I use the fireplace while the chimney is being repointed?
The work is on the outside of the masonry, but fresh joints are still curing. We tell you whether a fire is fine during the project and when normal use can resume, based on where we worked and the mortar used.
How is dust handled while old mortar is removed?
Raking makes dust and noise. We agree with you which windows stay shut, protect surfaces below and clean up as we go. Tell us about vents, patio furniture or vehicles near the chimney so we can plan protection.
Why do some joint shapes hold up better on a chimney?
Concave and V-shaped joints are pressed tight against the brick when tooled, which helps them resist water. Recessed or ledged joints can hold water on the face. We discuss matching the existing look against weather resistance.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Chimney Liner Installation and ReliningPlan a compatible chimney liner installation with the existing passage, connections and maintenance access considered together.
- Chimney RebuildRebuild the affected chimney section with the retained structure, roof connection and passage included in the plan.
- Hurricane and Storm Damage Chimney RepairAssess storm-related chimney concerns and distinguish temporary protection from permanent component repair.
- Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert InstallationFit a wood-burning insert after assessing its host fireplace and full connection requirements.
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