Repointing a Chimney: What Homeowners Should Know

The chimney is the most exposed masonry on a house, so its joints usually fail long before the walls lower down.

Why chimneys go first

A stack takes wind, rain and frost from every side, with no shelter. That constant exposure wears the joints back quickly.

Signs to look for

From the ground you may see open or eroded joints, missing mortar or staining. Inside, damp on a chimney breast can point to water getting in through failed joints on the stack.

What the work involves

Failed joints are raked out and repointed with a suitable mortar, worked in well and finished to shed water. On older stacks a more breathable mortar is usually appropriate.

Access matters

Chimney work is at height, so suitable safe access is required and this often means scaffolding. The appropriate access arrangements can be discussed as part of the quotation.