Expert: James Ball - 5/24/2009

Question
Hello James,
I am in the process of purchasing a new home which I had inspected. Our inspector found a problem with the chimney.  The top of the chimney is separating 3 1/2 inches away from the house. The bricks are separating and there is mortar around the top of the roof and chimney. There is also a metal piece running along side the length of the chimney. Foam is behind the metal piece which is supposed to keep out moisture. I would like to know what is your professional advice on how to address this problem. Also, I would like to know if chimney replacement is necessary, what are the alternatives.

Thanks John

Answer
Hello John, Not sure what you are describing but it sounds like the chimney is separating from the house? pulling away at the top and some one filled it in with foam and a metal piece to fill in the hole.
if so the entire chimney might have to come down and be rebuilt, I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look eat what you have they should be able to help. and maybe an engineer.
do not use this chimney
James