Masonry Restoration
Chimney Repair
Chimney Tops
The cement cap and the top two feet are the most important part of the chimney because this is the most exposed to the weather and always the first area to deteriorate
Over time the cement cap can develop cracks and it can also lose its cementatious value, causing it to turn sandy.
pix
This chimney has several faults, all of which were initiated with water intrusion.
- The cement cap is cracked and sandy.
- The cement cap is lifting up from the top row of bricks, creating a gap for more water to intrude.
- The bricks are spalling. "The face of the brick has separated from the brick itself".
- The mortar joints are too deep, leaving the tops of the bricks exposed to standing water.
- The mortar joints are turning sandy and deteriorating
All of these scenarios are possible entry points for water. I recommend replacing a cement cap every 20 years.
Wide Chimneys
Wide Chimneys are large targets for rain water and frequently require maintenance.
This chimney has three flaws in its design:
- It's large size which collects excessive water.
- Deep Mortar Joints.
- Narrow brick which has more mortar joints in a given area.
A surface with a taller brick is more durable with fewer mortar joints.