How to Repair Spalling Brick Chimneys
- Tools and Equipment
- Investigate the Cause of the Damage. The first order of business is to thoroughly examine your whole chimney to find where and what the issues are.
- Be Sure to Choose the Right Bricks to Replace. ...
- Cut Out the Spalled Bricks. ...
- Replace the Old Mortar. ...
- Replace the Old Bricks. ...
How do you fix a spalling chimney?
– Using salvaged bricks to build your chimney because older bricks tend to be more porous – Cleaning your home’s brickwork with a sandblaster or pressure washer that strip off the waterproofing sealant Solving the underlying problem that is allowing moisture into the masonry is the most important step in treating spalling.
How do you fix a cracked brick chimney?
For minor brick/mortar damage, a waterproof sealant can be applied to prevent more water from getting into the cracked areas. This won’t fix existing brick damage, but it will keep water out of the system. A process called tuckpointing often is useful in repairing chimneys where sections of bricks and mortar are missing.
What is brick spalling and how do you fix it?
A common problem we find during chimney inspections is brick spalling. Left unattended, spalling bricks can lead to expensive and complicated repairs. If caught early, solutions are fairly straightforward. What is brick spalling? Spalling is the term used to describe bricks that have begun to crumble and dislodge.
Is your chimney spalling brick?
Spalling brick is one of the first signs that a chimney is in need of some tender loving attention. The compromised bricks expose the porous interior which gives way to water damage that can eventually destroy your masonry. The following are other damages that can occur due to spalling brick:
Can spalling bricks be repaired?
If the spalling is isolated to a small area of brickwork, then it's possible that only those bricks and their surrounding mortar seams will need to be replaced. Only a few bricks can be removed from a structure at a time, so attempting a targeted fix means that the damaged area needs to be relatively small.
How do you fix a crumbling brick on a chimney?
Replace the Old Bricks Get the area nice and damp before applying a layer of new mortar to the sides and base of the hole with your trowel. Slowly slide the replacement brick into the hole until it lines up with your older bricks. Use the trowel to make your mortar work uniform with the rest of the chimney.
Why are my chimney bricks spalling?
This can happen for several reasons, but the most common reason is the weather. When moisture becomes trapped inside the bricks and then the temperature drops below freezing, the water in the bricks freezes. Since frozen water expands, when those bricks thaw, they become brittle and flake apart.
How much does it cost to repair brick spalling?
Spalling brick repairs cost $900 to $1,200 on average but can get as high as $20,000 or more. The term “spalling” describes the crumbly, flaked and pitted appearance it gets after years in climates with freeze thaw cycles, improper installation, nonbreathable sealants or high-pressure water cleaning.
How do you fix a chimney deterioration?
InstructionsRepoint the Chimney Brick Mortar. Mortar holds bricks together. ... Caulk Around the Flue and the Crown. ... Patch Cracks in the Large Crown Area. ... Patch Hairline Cracks With Sealant. ... Repair Cracked Bricks. ... Replace Cracked Bricks.
How long should a brick chimney last?
50 to 100 yearsIf a chimney has been correctly built and cared for, it can be expected to last for 50 to 100 years!
How do you fix spalling bricks?
The best way to deal with spalling is to prevent it before it occurs. The best and one of the easiest ways to do this is to apply a masonry sealant to the bricks which is specially designed to allow the bricks to breathe.
How do you stop brick spalling?
How to prevent brick spalling:Ensure water is properly draining from around your foundation.Install a snow/rain cap on your chimney.Avoid pressure washing your brick, which can weaken it.Check your house for leaks. ... Inspect your brick and your chimney regularly to look for cracks. ... Keep crawling vines in check.
What to do with a crumbling chimney?
Chimney repair services often include applying a waterproof sealant to the masonry and chimney crown. This is a good option if the damage is minor and all you need to do is prevent more water from getting in. Tuckpointing is a process whereby fresh, new mortar is added to sections where the mortar is missing.
Is brick spalling serious?
Spalling can be inconsequential, that is, a purely aesthetic issue, or it can lead to serious structural damage requiring costly repair work. Older bricks deteriorate through spalling as a result of moisture penetration, eventually resulting in the brick crumbling.
Are blown bricks a problem?
Structural problems such as bulging or sagging walls will need serious attention and could mean extensive and expensive repairs to your home, but single bricks can start to break down, otherwise known as 'blowing' or 'spalling'. This is usually down to damage where water has got in and cannot get out.
What does repointing brickwork mean?
Repointing is the repair of existing pointing, requiring removal of the damaged material and refilling with a new mortar mix.
Why is my chimney crumbling?
One of the biggest reasons for crumbly, damaged chimney masonry is water infiltration. If your chimney has small cracks, water can get in and will freeze and expand when the temperature drops. This will lead to further damage and start a cycle that can eventually cause major structural and safety issues.
How do you seal crumbling exterior brick?
Seal Crumbling BricksSupplies. Industrial vacuum cleaners. ... Clear the Area. You do not want the sealant to get all over your home and items. ... Prep the Brick. Wipe off any loose brick or mortar with a stiff brush. ... Remove Dust. Make sure the area is dust-free, so you do not seal any dust or grit to the surface. ... Apply the Sealer.
What causes bricks to crumble?
A: “Spalling” is the term for what you're seeing. It happens when bricks absorb moisture, then freeze before they dry out. Water, like most liquids, contracts as it cools. But when water reaches about 39 degrees Fahrenheit, it expands slightly as it reaches freezing temperature.
How much does it cost to rebuild the top of a chimney?
A complete chimney rebuild costs $1,000 to $3,500 to rebrick the stack above the roofline. A partial rebuild costs $600 to $1,000 to redo a small chimney or the top few feet of a large stack. A complete chimney replacement costs $4,000 to $15,000 to rebuild above and below the roofline.
Why do chimney bricks spall?
The entire structure of your home is dependent upon one another so any weakness can cause an issue that can lead to spalling. The climate plays a huge part in spalling. Wet or freezing weather causes the mortar to swell and release.
What happens if you spall bricks on a fireplace?
If you have a fireplace with a chimney, it’s your responsibility to maintain it. That means when you notice that bricks are spalling, you must find a solution immediately or you’re putting everyone in danger. Spalling bricks give way to further problems with your chimney and even other areas of your home. Plus, spalled brick are just an eye sore. With the helpful information and instructions above, you should have your problem fixed and your chimney back up in no time.
What Causes Spalling Brick?
In general, spalled bricks are caused when mortar made with an incorrect compression rate are being used under heat. Mortar is designed to absorb the expanding of the bricks under such strenuous circumstances as the process of freezing and thawing. If the mortar isn’t holding, it doesn’t absorb moisture when the freeze and thaw cycles occur. That means it can literally squeeze the brick rather than vice versa (as it should normally be).
What to do if you have a chimney problem?
If you’re having any problems with your chimney, you best choice is to call Vertical Chimney Care. We’ve been Chicago’s chimney experts since 1985. We’ll inspect your chimney to look for any problems and, if you have spalling brick, will tuckpoint your chimney.
Why does mortar spall?
The climate plays a huge part in spalling. Wet or freezing weather causes the mortar to swell and release. This compromise can put stress on bricks and cause trouble very easily. It’s the most common reason behind spalling in wet and cold climates.
How thick should mortar be for brick?
With a sharp trowel, apply the mortar to the respective sides and base of horizontally. The layer should be about 10mm thick. Slide the brick into the hole using great care.
Why are bricks weak?
Spalled bricks can cause other bricks around them to get weak because they’re not doing their jobs. It’s like a domino effect.
What is a spalling chimney?
Spalling is when the bricks on your chimney start to deteriorate to the point where chunks of it start falling from your chimney. Spalling usually begins as small structural cracks on your chimney and grow bigger until your chimney’s entire surface starts deteriorating.
What causes spalling bricks?
Water can weaken masonry and can erode surfaces. Whenever too much water gets trapped inside a structure, it causes something called the freeze cycle.
What causes a chimney to spall?
Water. Water can eventually lead to spalling in numerous ways. If rainwater consistently makes a direct hit with your chimney’s surface, it will eventually begin to degrade all your brickwork. Similarly, if somehow water finds a way to enter the foundation of your home, it may end up damaging your chimney from the inside. ...
What does it mean when a chimney is spalling?
If you notice that only the bricks located on your chimneys below grade level are spalling, it is likely that your chimney was not built properly.
What is the damage to bricks?
The total damage that occurred to your bricks usually relates to the total number of freeze cycles that have taken place, the total amount of water, as well as the permeability and porosity of your bricks. Some bricks are denser throughout their core, while others are just tougher on the outside but softer towards the center.
Why does masonry crack?
When the overall temperature cools down, the moisture expands within the surface and freezes. As soon as the temperature starts to heat up again, water tends to thaw and decrease in volume. As a result of this process happening repeatedly, it puts a lot of pressure on your masonry, which causes it to crack and spall.
Can bricks spall in chimney?
If left untreated, with time, this condition will only worsen until it starts messing with the overall structure and stability of your chimney. Once the bricks start spalling in a particular location, it only increases the risk that all its surrounding bricks will do the same.
What Causes Chimney Brick Spalling?
The core reason that a masonry chimney can start suffering from brick spalling is brick and mortar quality. Poorly compressed mortar won’t allow bricks to expand safely during the freeze/thaw process, and bricks that are too porous will easily allow rainwater and moisture from fog or ice to seep in.
What causes brick to pop out of chimney?
What is Spalling Brick? Spalling brick occurs when moisture seeps into a brick and then goes through the freeze/thaw cycle. Over time this water damage causes the spalling bricks to crumble, flake, and even pop completely out of the chimney.
What is spalling brick?
Spalling brick is an issue that plenty of chimney owners in colder climates have to deal with, but this article should give you all the information you need to know about spalling brick and how you can start tackling the problem before it gets out of hand.
Why is my chimney squeaky?
If you live in a region that gets plenty of rain, fog, or freezing temperatures, then you’ll want to consistently check your bricks. Pressure washing or sandblasting can make your chimney look squeaky clean, but the microdamage can lead to spalling in the future.
What will start spalling a lot faster than high quality bricks and craftsmanship?
Poor construction or salvaged bricks will start spalling a lot faster than high-quality bricks and craftsmanship.
What can a chimney sweep check for?
A professional chimney sweep can check for damaged bricks along with many other common chimney issues while performing an annual chimney cleaning or inspection.
What are the risks of bricks?
Some of the damages or risks damaged bricks can cause are: Health risks caused by mold. Chimney collapse. Structural damage to other parts of your home. Water and mold go hand-in-hand, and spalling bricks can easily cause mold to spread to the surrounding area. This is a huge health risk and also looks terrible.
What is the best way to repair a cracked brick chimney?
This won’t fix existing brick damage, but it will keep water out of the system. A process called tuckpointing often is useful in repairing chimneys where sections of bricks and mortar are missing.
What is brick spalling?
Spalling is the term used to describe bricks that have begun to crumble and dislodge. Damage to the exterior brick surface is usually the first sign.
What is tuckpointing a chimney?
A process called tuckpointing often is useful in repairing chimneys where sections of bricks and mortar are missing. This chimney repair work involves adding new, strong mortar to open areas to restore structural soundness to the chimney. If considerable masonry damage exists, it may be necessary to rebuild parts of the chimney or the entire structure. In these cases, chimney service professionals may recommend a more extensive chimney inspection to understand the extent of the damage to the masonry and the home itself.
Why is my chimney unsafe?
A variety of things can affect the condition of your chimney’s bricks and mortar and cause the chimney to be unsafe. A common problem we find during chimney inspections is brick spalling. Left unattended, spalling bricks can lead to expensive and complicated repairs.
What is inferior mortar?
Inferior mortar: Cheap or incorrectly applied mortar used to build the chimney can “squeeze” the bricks during freeze/thaw cycles and cause cracking.
What happens if a chimney leaks?
Additionally, a significant chimney leak can cause water to spread to vulnerable areas of the home and result in rotting and decay to wall boards, insulation, ceilings and more.
Is salvaged brick more prone to damage than new brick?
Salvaged bricks: Re-used bricks are more prone to damage than new , high-quality bricks.
Crumbling Brick Chimney Repair Options
Here, we’ll be looking at one of the conditions of disrepair and the processes involved in fixing it. So, do you have a crumbling chimney? You’ll want to find details on how to go about the process of getting it fixed.
What Leads to Chimney Brick Spalling?
When a masonry chimney is newly built, its condition is in top shape and it’s expected to have a significant lifespan. In most cases, well-built masonry chimneys should last for as long as your home lasts.
Spalling Brick Chimney Repair Guide
Addressing underlying causes of crumbling brick chimneys is central to the comprehensive resolution of the problem.
How To Repair Spalling Bricks On Chimney
A certified chimney sweep will have to be called to perform an inspection.
Crumbling Brick Chimney Repair Cost
Chimney spalling repair costs between $200 – $700 depending on the rebuild or replacement options recommended.
What is chimney brick spalling?
Chimney Brick Spalling: What it Is and Why it Needs Repair. Spalling is the name used to describe chimney bricks that have begun to chip, loosen or otherwise decay. A chimney full of spalling bricks can be an eyesore, but more importantly, it can be a dangerous structure to use and live around.
Why does my chimney have spalling bricks?
Why your chimney has spalling bricks. A variety of events can cause bricks to start decaying. Here are some of the most common: Old age: Like just about everything, chimney bricks and the mortar that connects them have lifespans. Older bricks are more likely to decay simply because of old age as well as due to the causes listed below.
Why does my chimney crack?
House-settling: The normal settling that houses do over the years can cause cracking in chimney bricks and mortar, particularly if the chimney was built incorrectly.
Can spalling bricks damage a chimney?
Most often, spalling bricks will allow water into the chimney system where it will cause further compromise as well as possible damage to the chimney liner, fireplace damper and adjacent areas of the home such as ceilings, walls and beams.
Can lightning cause brick to spall?
Lightning strikes: Needless to say, a good lightning strike can cause brick spalling within your chimney structure.
Can you ignore spalling bricks?
As dire as the results of ignoring spalling bricks can be, solving the problem usually isn’t difficult . The idea is to catch it early. This is accomplished by your own periodic inspections of the chimney’s exterior as well as yearly scheduled chimney inspections by a certified chimney professional.
Can water damage bricks?
Water damage: Water and bricks don’t mix. Water erodes bricks, and if there are cracks in the chimney masonry, water can seep in and expand when the air temperature drops below freezing. Significant damage often is the result.
What Causes Spalling Bricks?
Water
Non-Breathable Sealants.
Improper Construction Or Below The Grade-Built Chimney.
High-Pressure Cleaning
Solution For Spalled Bricks
- If you wish to identify your damage’s overall extent, you need to tap on your spalled chimney’s surface and then measure where your damage appears to seize. If your crumbly surface extends anything more than 3/4 of an inch, it is more likely that the damage impacts your chimney’s overall stability. In which case, you need to take severe measures to...
Brick Spalling Prevention