Please note that we do not clean chimneys or repair accessories such as starters, arresters, dampers, or gas fixtures.
We are very experienced with constructing new chimneys and fireplaces and repairing physical damage to brick and mortar, including fire brick and refractory mortar (fire mortar).
The majority of masonry style chimneys on most residential properties are constructed of materials like brick, stone, concrete, and stucco.
Now, before going into depth on how a chimney is constructed, let’s first talk about the 2 main functions a chimney provides. First, they create a constant draft by delivering the right amount of oxygen while allowing for optimal combustion inside the firebox. Secondly, chimneys allow the fireplace combustion to escape upwards through the flue pipe keeping the air inside your home safe to breath. Taller chimneys will always allow for a stronger draft compared to those with shorter chimney stacks. Outside airflow may be affected by surrounding obstructions on the roof or nearby trees. We recommend keeping the chimney height at least 3 feet above flat roofs and a minimum of 2 feet above the roof ridge or high points along the roof area.
Chimney Construction
1. The heaviest part!
Chimneys can certainly be the heaviest part of the house and will require a significant footing to support the overall size and mass of the structure. A solid concrete footing should first be poured and extend a minimum of 6” outwards from all 4 edges of the brick housing. The depth of your footing may range between 8” – 12” depending on your house being 1 or 2 stories in size.
2. Don’t forget to line the inside.
Next, we will line the inside space with heat resistant standard flue tile at a minimum thickness of ⅝”. Ensure a 1” gap is established between the outside of the tiled flue and surrounding brick to reduce any loss of heat and improve air flow. It’s very important a minimum space of 2” is left around all 4 sides preventing any potential fires from surrounding materials including wood framing, ceilings, and floors.
3. Once its fully constructed…
Once the chimney is fully constructed, you may install sheet metal in place of this 2” opening in order to prevent the fire hazards listed above. Mix your mortar as specified on the bag using a combination of sand and cement using your trowel until the mix becomes thick like peanut butter. Build up the exterior brick course by course and set the flue tiles at the same time allowing for the best access inside the structure. Constructing the chimney exterior too high will certainly make it difficult to lay the flue tiles down below the surrounding brick exterior.
4. Metal flashing?
Next, fabricate and install the metal flashing down where the chimney and roof meet together. Seal off this area with a flexible silicone based sealant.
5. And the last step!
Finally, install the metal chimney cap to cover and conceal the concrete crown and top perimeter of the chimney stack. Please ensure the cap is correctly sloped with edges that allow water to flow out and away while preventing moisture accumulation inside the chimney stack.
Masonry style chimneys should be well planned out and properly constructed by a masonry professional. You absolutely must be cautious when attempting to perform brick work at extreme heights on scaffolds! One wrong move and you may find your life flashing before your eyes as you fall landing in your local emergency room. You seriously need an experienced team of masons who have the knowledge, experience, and required equipment to get the job done right the first time. Superior Masonry is here to take you step by step through your chimney request. Give us a call today and we gladly schedule an on site consultation to assess your chimney and discuss your needs
Please note that we do not clean chimneys or repair accessories such as starters, arresters, dampers, or gas fixtures.
We are very experienced with constructing new chimneys and fireplaces and repairing physical damage to brick and mortar, including fire brick and refractory mortar (fire mortar).
Chimney Repair and Restoration
Outdoor chimneys are constantly getting hit with strong wind, heavy rain, hail, and constant sunlight which can rapidly destroy the outside brick and stone exterior. We recommend having a thorough inspection to ensure all areas around the exterior walls are in satisfactory condition.
Common signs of eroded and missing mortar are typically seen throughout the top perimeter of the chimney where years and years of weathering have impacted the masonry surface. Many times customers complain of water leakage due to the imperfections listed above and soon find the mortar crown has cracked causing moisture entry into their fireplace below. The exterior brick on all chimney stacks are susceptible to deterioration and spalling. This is a process where the outside layers of brick begin to slowly peel off and flake away leaving a weaker surface which can jeopardize the structural integrity of the surrounding brick or stone exterior.
Click here to contact us for a free estimate to repair your chimney brick or mortar.
We have over 10 years experience working around numerous chimneys of various sizes and have the expertise to remedy your chimney repairs. Please reach out to schedule your on site consultation today, and we will gladly assist you with your chimney repair and restoration needs.
Do you need masonry work in the DFW area?
Superior Masonry strives to help our customers with quality masonry work and excellent service.
If you need masonry work in the DFW area, please call, email, or use our online form to schedule your free estimate and consultation. We look forward to hearing from you!
972-433-9372 – info@superiormasonrydallas.com
View our NextDoor Page
