With our extensive four-decade experience in inspecting, cleaning, and repairing masonry chimneys in the Lehigh Valley, we have encountered and successfully resolved many issues. One of the most prevalent is damaged bricks and spalling, which can largely be prevented with annual chimney inspections. However, without these checkups, the deterioration of masonry will speed up. This deterioration can lead to leaky chimneys, smoky chimneys, chimney crown damage, and other common chimney problems. You can trust our expertise to handle these issues with precision and care.
What Are Spalling Bricks?
What Are Spalling Bricks?Spalling, the flaking and deterioration of bricks, is a serious issue that requires professional intervention. When moisture seeps into the brick, freezes and thaws repeatedly, the brick and mortar weaken, leading to crumbling and flaking. If left unaddressed, this can result in pieces popping out of the chimney. It's crucial to seek assistance from our Certified Chimney Professional®, who is trained and certified to identify and address chimney issues, for repairs to prevent a structural collapse.
Common Causes of Brick Damage
Several factors can contribute to spalling bricks, such as:
- Poor Construction: Using inferior materials or improper construction techniques can make a chimney more susceptible to damage.
- Age: Like any building material, bricks deteriorate naturally over time.
- Weather: Extreme temperature swings, freeze-thaw cycles, and strong winds can damage brickwork.
Repairing Damaged & Spalling Bricks
Depending on the damage, repairing your chimney may require:
Brick Replacement
Our masonry expert replaces spalling and severely damaged bricks with new ones that match the existing masonry.
Tuckpointing
This masonry process involves removing and replacing damaged mortar and filling gaps in the joints with a new, durable mortar compound to restore the chimney.
Chimney Rebuilding
In severe cases, a partial or complete rebuilding of the chimney may be necessary to restore the chimney’s structural integrity and prevent a complete collapse.
Chimney Waterproofing
Applying a high-quality vapor-permeable sealant after masonry and brick repairs helps protect the chimney from future water damage. This sealant forms a protective barrier against rain, snow, and ice, preventing moisture from seeping into the bricks and mortar, thereby reducing the risk of spalling and prolonging the life of your chimney.
How to Prevent Masonry Damage
In most cases, spalling is preventable with annual chimney inspections. We strongly recommend immediate repair of damaged bricks, along with chimney waterproofing to prevent future water damage. By taking these steps, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of spalling and ensure the longevity of their chimney and fireplace.
- Schedule Annual Inspections
- Inspect Your Chimney After a Storm
- Make Timely Chimney Repairs
- Waterproof Your Chimney
We Fix Damaged & Spalling Brick Chimneys in Eastern Pennsylvania
If you have loose, missing, damaged bricks or spalling, we can help! Our expert masonry repair services will restore your chimney to its former glory as if the damage never happened. Contact Wells & Sons Chimney & Fireplace Services today to schedule a visit and get a repair estimate. We proudly serve residential and commercial customers in Allentown PA, Reading PA, Norristown PA, Pottstown PA, West Chester PA, Phoenixville PA, Exton PA, Lansdale PA, Emmaus PA, Perkasie PA, and surrounding townships.
