Noticed leaks in your home on, in, or near the chimney breast? This is usually a sign that something’s not quite right up on your roof. You might need to arrange roof repairs, or you might simply need to have some chimney repointing done.
Below, we’ll explain what chimney repointing is and why it’s necessary. We’ll run through the most common reasons it’s carried out, and situations where more significant repairs or rebuilding may be needed.
What is Repointing and Why is it Necessary?
Repointing is simply the process of removing and replacing the mortar between bricks. It’s the same whether carried out on a wall of your house or garden, or on the chimney stack up on the roof.
Chimney repointing offers the following benefits:
- Improves the stability of the chimney’s structure
- Prevents the collapse of brickwork
- Extends the life of the chimney
- Improves the aesthetic appearance of the chimney (especially one that is looking old or weather-beaten)
- Prevents rainwater leaks down or next to the chimney
- Can improve energy efficiency, as sealing gaps can prevent draughts and stop heat escaping.
Reasons Your Chimney Might Need Repointing
There are a few different reasons your chimney might need repointing. It’s important to identify the right one, as repointing may not be the best or only solution.
Let’s dive into a few of the most common reasons to get your chimney repointed.
Reason #1 – The Mortar Has Worn Away
Looking up at your chimney from the street, can you see any gaps between the bricks? You might need a pair of binoculars to get a good look, or send up a roof repairs specialist to take a closer look.
Gaps between the bricks indicate that the mortar has worn away. This can happen with age, and due to adverse weather. It’s important to get it sorted right away, as these gaps can start to let rainwater into your home. It can also cause the brickwork to become unstable.
Reason #2 – There are Cracks in the Mortar or Brickwork
If the mortar is still there but it is cracked, flaking, chipping off or otherwise damaged, it’s a good idea to get your chimney repointed. Leave it too long and the mortar could wear away altogether. It may already be letting in water in places, or starting to affect the structural integrity of the brickwork.
Reason #3 – Old or Weathered Mortar
If it’s been a long time since your chimney had any TLC, you might want to have it inspected to see if repointing is needed. After all, prevention is better than cure when it comes to roof and chimney maintenance.
Having your chimney inspected can help to prevent future problems, as well as flagging up any other issues in need of attention.
When to Arrange Roof Repairs
Repointing a chimney is usually a relatively straightforward job, and it shouldn’t take too long to do. But it may not be sufficient to solve all chimney issues.
Unfortunately, chimneys can be something of a problem area when it comes to roof maintenance. This is partly because it’s the centre of so many joins, between roof materials and brickwork. These can all be vulnerable spots, which if left untreated can cause leaks and other issues.
Upon inspection, it may be the case that part or all of your chimney needs rebuilding, or the lead flashing needs replacing.
If so, you’ll need to arrange roof repairs. This is likely to be more expensive than repointing and take longer to complete, but it’s a crucial part of maintaining your roof.
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