Bridi Blog · Masonry Tips
On Cape Cod, winter is hard on chimneys. Rain and snow get into small cracks, freeze, expand and make every crack bigger. A problem that costs a little to fix in the fall can turn into a much bigger repair by spring. Here are the signs we look for, and what each one means.
1. A cracked chimney crown
The crown is the concrete cap on top of the chimney. It is the first thing that takes rain and snow. Once it cracks, water runs straight down into the masonry. You usually cannot see it from the ground, which is why we inspect chimneys with a drone instead of guessing.
2. Crumbling or missing mortar
If the mortar between the bricks looks sandy, recessed or is falling out, water is getting into the chimney. Repointing, which means cutting out the bad mortar and packing in new, stops it before bricks start to loosen.
3. Flaking or broken bricks
When water inside a brick freezes, the face of the brick can pop off. This is called spalling. Bits of brick on the roof, in the gutters or on the ground near the chimney are a clear sign.
4. Water stains or leaks near the chimney
Stains on the ceiling or walls next to the chimney, damp smells, or water in the firebox usually mean the flashing, where the chimney meets the roof, or the crown has failed. Leaks around chimneys tend to get worse quickly once winter storms start.
5. White staining on the brick
White, chalky stains on the outside of the chimney are salts left behind by water moving through the masonry. On its own it is cosmetic, but it tells you water is getting in.
6. Leaning or separating
A chimney that leans or pulls away from the house is a structural problem, not a cosmetic one. Have it looked at right away and avoid using the fireplace until it is checked.
Why fall is the right time
- Small repairs stay small when they are done before the freeze and thaw cycles begin.
- You want the chimney sound before the fireplace or stove is in heavy use.
- Masonry work needs the right temperatures to cure, so it is easier to schedule before deep winter.
Repair or rebuild?
Many chimneys only need a new crown, new flashing or repointing. When the brick is badly damaged or the chimney is leaning, a rebuild from the roofline up is often the better investment. We show you what we see from the drone and tell you plainly which one you need.
Get your chimney checked
We repair and rebuild chimneys across Cape Cod and Plymouth County, starting with a free drone inspection. See how we work on our Chimney Repair & Rebuilds page, or call (508) 360-2151.
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