A well-maintained chimney is crucial for safe burning, heating efficiency, and long-term structural integrity. Exposure to seasonal weather changes, moisture, and excessive wear and tear can lead to the deterioration of masonry chimneys, including damaged bricks and spalling. These issues can lead to costly repairs, fire and safety hazards, and structural problems without prompt repair.
What Happens When Bricks Are Damaged?
Although bricks can last for decades, they are porous materials. So, when water penetrates its pores, it freezes and expands in cold weather. This pressure causes the brickwork to crack, flake, or peel away—a process known as spalling. The weakened masonry structure is vulnerable to further damage, including collapse.
Damaged bricks can result from:
- Freeze-thaw cycles
- Moisture absorption
- Combustion byproducts
- Settling or structural movement
- Age and wear
Signs of Damaged Bricks & Spalling:
The early spotting of masonry damage can prevent more extensive and costly repairs. Walk around your chimney and tick the box next to any of the following issues you find:
- Cracked or crumbling bricks.
- Flaking or peeling brick faces.
- Mortar deterioration (eroding mortar joints).
- White, powdery deposits (efflorescence).
- Loose or missing bricks.
- Visible gaps or holes in the masonry.
- Leaning or tilting chimney stack.
By performing annual inspections and making prompt repairs, you are taking a proactive step in maintaining a safe and efficient heating system for your home. It can also save you from more extensive and costly repairs in the future.
Repairing Damaged Bricks and Spalling:
Chimney and masonry professionals use a variety of methods to repair brick damage and spalling, such as:
Tuckpointing:
Tuckpointing is a masonry technique for removing and replacing decaying mortar joints, restoring structural integrity, and preventing water infiltration. The new mortar compound is color-matched to the surrounding structure for a seamless repair.
Individual brick replacement:
When individual bricks are damaged or missing, a qualified chimney professional can individually replace them with new brickwork.
Partial or complete rebuilding:
When the chimney or foundation is severely damaged, a partial or complete rebuilding of the masonry structure may be the most viable option.
The type of repair depends on the type of damage and whether it is limited to a small section of the stack or more extensive. More extensive damage, such as large gaps, leaning, and other structural issues, may require a partial or complete rebuild.
Prevent Future Masonry Damage with Raintite®
Once the brick repairs are complete, protecting your chimney from future moisture damage is essential. Applying Raintite®, a high-quality, vapor-permeable waterproofing sealant, creates an invisible shield to protect against rain, snow, and ice, thus preventing water absorption and subsequent spalling. Vapor permeability is essential, allowing the brick to “breathe” so moisture isn’t trapped within the masonry. It’s not just waterproof—it’s Raintite®!
For Chimney Companies:
Are you interested in offering our advanced coatings to your customers? Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities and wholesale pricing.
For Homeowners:
Hey homeowners! Find an authorized Approved Industries installer near you. If you don’t see one in your area, please contact your local chimney company and ask them to consider offering Approved Industries’ solutions for repairing damaged bricks and spalling.
