Your First Option For Chimney Repairs
What Is Chimney Repointing?
Chimney repointing is the process of renewing mortar joints where existing pointing has become defective.
The mortar between the bricks helps protect the masonry and contributes to the weather resistance of the chimney. When joints become badly eroded or open, water can find easier routes into the structure.
Depending on the chimney, repointing can involve:
- Inspecting the existing mortar
- Identifying failed or loose joints
- Removing defective material carefully
- Preparing the joints
- Selecting suitable replacement mortar
- Repointing affected sections
- Matching the existing appearance where appropriate
- Checking surrounding brickwork
- Looking at the chimney-to-roof junction
- Identifying other defects that may need attention
The key is to repair what actually needs repairing.
There is little benefit in disturbing sound masonry simply because some areas of pointing have deteriorated.
Signs Your Cannock Chimney May Need Repointing
Chimney deterioration isn't always obvious from the garden.
Some warning signs you may notice include:
- Crumbling mortar
- Missing sections between bricks
- Deeply recessed joints
- Cracks through mortar
- Loose mortar fragments on the roof
- Damaged or flaking brick faces
- Damp around a chimney breast
- Water staining after rainfall
- Vegetation growing from joints
- Old pointing separating from the brickwork
- Visible deterioration around the top of the stack
- A chimney that appears uneven or unstable
If you can see mortar falling from the chimney or notice new cracks, don't assume it is merely cosmetic.
Historic England recommends checking older masonry for eroded or missing pointing, cracks and crumbling, while also looking for other sources of damp and deterioration.
Does Repointing Make a Chimney Look Better?
It can certainly improve the appearance of a weathered stack.
Failing mortar can make otherwise attractive brickwork appear neglected, while carefully executed pointing can restore clearer definition between the brick courses.
However, appearance shouldn't be the sole consideration.
On an older property, the mortar colour, texture, joint profile and finish can all contribute to the building's character.
Historic England notes that traditional pointing styles can be significant and may include distinctive finishes that should be considered when repairing historic masonry.
Chimney Repointing Areas Around Cannock
Staffs Chimney Repairs provides Chimney Repointing in Cannock and nearby areas, subject to location and availability.
Our wider service area can include:
- Cannock
- Hednesford
- Heath Hayes
- Chasetown
- Great Wyrley
- Huntington
- Cannock Wood
- Norton Canes
- Bridgtown
- Burntwood
- Brownhills
- Rugeley
- Lichfield
- Penkridge
- Stafford
Whether you live in a traditional terrace close to Cannock town centre, an established family home in Hednesford or a property towards Cannock Chase, chimney condition should be considered according to the individual building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chimney repointing?
Chimney repointing is the process of removing defective mortar from chimney joints and replacing it with suitable new mortar.
How can I tell if my chimney needs repointing?
Look for missing, cracked, loose, powdery or deeply recessed mortar. Damp around the chimney breast or mortar fragments appearing on the roof can also justify an inspection.
Does an old chimney automatically need repointing?
No. Age isn't enough on its own. Sound mortar can remain effective for many years, and Historic England recommends retaining sound historic pointing where possible.
Can repointing stop a chimney leak?
It can if defective pointing is allowing water into the masonry. However, flashing, flaunching, roof coverings and chimney pots can also cause leaks.
Is lime mortar suitable for chimney repointing?
It can be suitable for certain traditional buildings, but the correct mortar depends on the existing construction. The same material shouldn't automatically be specified for every chimney.
Can you repoint a Victorian chimney in Cannock?
Yes, where repointing is appropriate. Older chimneys should be assessed carefully because their original brick and mortar may require compatible materials and a sympathetic finish.
What happens if the bricks are damaged too?
Damaged bricks may require separate repair or replacement. Repointing deals primarily with mortar joints and cannot correct severely deteriorated masonry.
Can repointing cure damp inside my house?
It can help where failed mortar is contributing to water ingress, but damp can have multiple causes. The chimney, flashing and roof junction should be considered together.
How long does chimney repointing last?
There is no single guaranteed lifespan. Durability depends on the mortar specification, exposure, masonry, preparation, workmanship and ongoing maintenance.
Will scaffolding be required?
The appropriate access depends on the property, chimney height and location. Safe access should be established before high-level work begins.
Does chimney repointing require planning permission?
It depends on the property and proposed work. Listed buildings and conservation areas can have additional requirements. Cannock Chase District Council recommends seeking conservation advice before undertaking relevant alterations in conservation areas.
Can I repoint my chimney myself?
Chimney work involves working at height and should not be treated as an ordinary DIY job. Professional access and safety arrangements are important.