Expert: James Ball - 11/9/2008

Question
We had our chimney cleaned and the chimney sweep brought down a couple of pictures that showed cracks in the concrete around the flue - said $500 to repair.  Sounded like a lot to me, so I am contemplating do the work myself and wondered what type of concrete/sealer should be used to create a long-lasting fix.  Thanks James in advance for your help and this service

Answer
Hello Randy, check with your local building department and home center.
a sweep may have the form and experience to do the job right like a gap around the flue tile that is filled with silicone not cement right up to the flue tile.
but talk to a few people and pick their brain you might do ok but $500 does not sound like to much to do this kind of repair.
James Ball