Chimney mortar joints repointed in Westwood Lakes
Tell us which side of the chimney looks worst, and we start the assessment there.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Chimney mortar damage worth a closer look
- Joints that crumble when scraped
- Gaps opening between brick and mortar
- Caulk pushed into open joints
- Water inside after rain on one side
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From raking to tooling, the repointing sequence
Why no one mortar suits every chimney
Two chimneys that look alike can need different repointing mortar. One may be built of hard, dense brick and another of softer units that absorb water readily. The original mortar may be lime-rich or cement-rich.
Brick industry guidance asks that mortar be checked for compatibility with the units and the application, not picked from habit. We look at the brick and the existing joints before choosing. You hear the reasoning, so the mortar on your estimate is a decision rather than a default.
Repointing does more than tidy the chimney
Fresh joints make a chimney look cared for, but the real purpose is keeping water out. Brick industry guidance explains that repairing cracked or deteriorated joints restores the mortar at the face and reduces the water that enters the masonry.
That matters inside the chimney as much as outside. Less water in the brick can mean less staining, fewer white deposits and less damage to the top courses and the flue. We explain what the repointing is expected to change, so you can judge the work by more than its looks.
Comparing chimney tuckpointing estimates
Two repointing quotes can describe very different work. One may involve raking every failed joint to proper depth and matching the mortar. Another may be a thin skim over the old joints. The numbers only compare fairly once you know which is which.
Put the same questions to everyone who quotes. Ask how deep the joints will be raked, how head joints are cleared, which mortar is used and how the color is matched. Our proposal sets those answers down on paper, so a side-by-side comparison is straightforward.
One chimney face worse than the others
One face of a chimney can show far more joint wear than the rest. That face may take more rain, dry more slowly or sit below a failing part of the crown or cap. The pattern is a clue.
We compare the faces during the inspection and look for what makes the worst one different. The repointing may focus on that face, and the cause above it may need its own repair. We explain both, so the new joints are not worn down the same way.
What we check before quoting repointing
- Dust control and covers during raking
- Plant growth cut back from the joints
- Access plan for the stack above the roof
- Cleanup and haul-away of old mortar
What people ask about chimney mortar
How do you decide which chimney joints need repointing?
We look at every face and test suspect joints by scraping lightly with a metal tool. Eroded, crumbling, hollow or cracked mortar is marked, along with cracks where mortar has let go of the brick. The estimate shows the areas we propose.
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.
What details help when I call about chimney mortar?
Tell us which side of the chimney looks worst, whether grit or mortar pieces have fallen and whether water shows inside. Mention earlier repointing or coatings. These details help us plan where to look first.
More Ways to Care for Your Fireplace
- Wood-Burning Fireplace Insert InstallationFit a wood-burning insert after assessing its host fireplace and full connection requirements.
- Prefab and Zero-Clearance Fireplace RepairIdentify and repair manufactured fireplace components using the appropriate model information.
- Chimney Crown RepairRepair the damaged chimney top with an approach matched to the crown and supporting masonry.
- Fireplace Hearth RepairRepair the hearth surface after considering the supporting assembly and fireplace requirements.
We 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