The Process of Rebuilding a Chimney

Rebuilding a chimney is a process that takes great care and expertise to be done correctly. If you’ve found yourself here, then it’s safe to say your chimney is in need of a rebuild and you’re looking around the internet to learn more about what is involved in that process. 

In this blog, we’re going to go over the process of rebuilding a chimney step-by-step. By the end, you will have a better understanding of what a professional team will be doing when they rebuild your chimney. So, without further adieu, the process of rebuilding a chimney. 

1. Chimney Inspection

First, the professionals you hire will come out and inspect your chimney. During their visit, the masonry experts will determine the extent of the damage. Then, once they’ve finished assessing they can let you know what necessary repairs are needed. 

2. Prepare with Caution

Rebuilding a chimney requires technicians to be in unsafe situations. Before they climb on the roof and start rebuilding your chimney, the workers will set up scaffolding, protect the roof and windows from possible falling debris, and they will make sure all the expected safety protocols are put into place. 

3. Demolish

The next step is to remove the old chimney. Masonry experts will take it apart piece by piece and work with care so they don’t damage the roof. They will remove the bricks and mortar with care and get rid of it. 

4. Repair the Foundation

Before stacking more bricks, the experts will inspect and reinforce the base of your chimney so the new structure will be stable. 

5. Masonry

Now comes the time to lay new bricks with mortar. The workers can recreate your old chimney or implement any modifications that might be needed. 

6. Install the Chimney Flue

Flue liners ensure that your chimney is properly ventilated. Once the bricks and mortar are placed, the experts will install the flue. 

7. Chimney Crown Construction

Next, the workers will pour a new concrete cap onto the top of the newly constructed chimney. This protects it from water infiltration. 

8. Install the Flashing

Roof flashing is installed around the edges of the chimney to prevent water from getting in. In this next step, the installers will put flashing where the chimney meets the roof. 

9. Final Inspection & Clean Up

The installers will inspect their work thoroughly and then clean up their gear and materials. 

Keep in Mind

Partial vs Full

If the damage isn’t too extensive, you may be able to partially rebuild your chimney. A partial rebuild only involves a specific section as opposed to completely dismantling and reconstructing the entire thing. 

You Need a Professional

In the DIY age, it’s not unheard of for people to want to do the job themselves but, as experts, we would advise anyone looking to rebuild a chimney to leave that work for professionals in the industry. A job as complex as rebuilding a chimney requires professionals. 

Do You Need a Chimney Rebuild in the Portland, OR Area?

If you live in the Portland, Vancouver, Beaverton, or Astoria areas contact Lifetime Chimney and we’ll get an expert out to inspect it right away. We’ve been providing chimney rebuilds and repairs in the northwest Oregon area for more than twenty years.