We will go over some basic tips for fixing a crumbling brick chimney.
Is your your roof in need of some repairs? Do those repairs have to do with a crumbling brick chimney? Well, worry no more, because in our blog this week we will go over some basic tips for fixing a crumbling brick chimney. Read on to learn more about the tools and tasks you need to get the job done.
The Tools You Need to Fix a Crumbling Brick Chimney
Some of the tools you will need before getting started include the following:
- Ladder
- Measuring tape
- A marker
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
- Hammer
- Set of bricks
Other tools you will need are equipment such as a cold chisel, a bucket, some water, a mortar mix, a bucket, a trowel, a wire brush, a sponge, and a mortar bag. One fascinating little trick to make the process easier and less expensive is to simply use a worn out frosting bag instead of getting a brand new mortar bag.
The Tasks You Need to Fix a Crumbling Brick Chimney
In order to complete the process of repairs, there are two main jobs you will need to finish. The first of these jobs is, of course, to replace any damaged bricks you might find. The second job, which may not be as evident (unless you examined our list of necessary tools!) is to repoint any mortar that may be crumbling as well. Damaged bricks and crumbling mortar are the two main causes of a crumbling brick chimney, so keep that in mind. These are only a few of the steps you will need to follow, so if you feel you aren’t ready to tackle it yourself, don’t hesitate to call on the professionals!
Replace Damaged Bricks
- First, measure the length of any damaged irregular bricks. If you have custom-fit (or custom-cut) bricks, you will need those to be replaced with new custom-fit bricks.
- Using the marker, mark the measurements of the old brick on your new bricks.
- Only remove a few bricks at a time. If you take too many out, you may cause the chimney to collapse.
- Take the mortar mix and fill in the empty spaces until all of the damaged bricks are replaced. The mortar will need about an hour to finish drying.
- Use a hammer or cold chisel to remove crumbling mortar from the joints of the brick.
- Mix up enough mortar that will last you 15-20 minutes at a time. Add the mortar to the mortar bag.
- With the mortar bag in hand, add the mortar into the empty joints.
- Again, allow the mortar to dry for about an hour.
Brick Inspection and Maintenance from Del Prete Masonry
If you are ready to upgrade your landscaping and hardscaping, Del Prete Masonry has the experience and expertise to get the job done right for the right price. To explore our residential and commercial services and set up a consultation, please give us a call at 410-683-0650 or contact us online. We currently serve Baltimore City and County, Harford County, Carroll County, Anne Arundel County, and Howard County. To see examples of our work and get more updates, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest.
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