The True Cost of a Poor Chimney Repair

A chimney might look like a simple stack of bricks, but its repair requires specialist skill and a strict attention to safety. While a low quote for a chimney repair is tempting, it’s often a warning sign of poor workmanship that can lead to far more dangerous and expensive problems.

Here’s what bad chimney work looks like:

• Shoddy Re-pointing: Using the wrong mortar mix or failing to properly prepare the joints can cause the mortar to crumble within months, leading to leaks and structural instability.

• Flashing Failures: Poorly installed leadwork is the primary cause of chimney leaks. We often find flashing that is not sealed correctly, cut too short, or inadequately tucked into the mortar joints.

• Unstable Chimney Pots: A cheap repair might involve simply cementing a loose pot back on without addressing the underlying cause. This leaves it vulnerable to falling off in high winds.

• Structural Neglect: An unqualified roofer might only address a visible issue, like a small leak, without inspecting the entire stack. This can miss a leaning chimney or rotten timber, leading to a much larger problem down the line.

• Improper Capping: An old, disused chimney that is improperly capped can trap moisture and rainwater, leading to internal damp, rot, and mould within the property.