Chimney & Fireplaces/Chimney Repair

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Expert: - 5/18/2006


Question
My brick chimney has some broken bricks and loose or missing mortor in the top 8 rows.  I have had three contractors who specialize in brick/chimney work look at it and offer different opinions.

One scenario is to diamond blade all mortar, remove chimney liner, tear down and rebuild top 8 rows, repoint from roof up.  Reseat cap and apply water sealant. Cost $1200 to $2500 (depending on contractor)

The second scenario is to tear down and rebuild the top 8 rows, leaving the liner in.  Reseat the cap.  Refresh the mortar from the roof up so it doesn't look like a patch job. Cost $550.

My question is what is an adequate repair on a chimney in this condition?  I would like to get the job done properly but also not have work done that is unnecessary.

Your input would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,
Keith

Answer
Hi Keith,

Without looking at the chimney, I'm just going by your description.

The first scenario is the better repair job as it addresses the chimney as a whole, not just a patch job like the 2nd option addresses.

Typically, in the chimney service and repair trades, you'll get what you pay for.

I never take the low bid on service work. Most of the time, I actually take the high bid as it typically is more comprehensive and the quality and craftsmanship is present.

Thanks for using AllExperts.Com and good luck with your project!

Sincerely,
A. Bart Ogden, President
Home Safe Hearth & Chimney
Wichita, KS
Voice: 316-265-9828
Fax: 316-265-9890
www.homesafeks.com

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Bart Ogden

Expertise

I can answer questions related to chimney and fireplace cleaning, construction and repair as well as questions related to the performance of chimneys and fireplaces. I can also answer questions related to clothes dryer vent cleaning and repair. Additionally, I can field questions related to masonry repair.

Experience


Experience in the area:
28 years experience in the chimney service/installation/repair field
President, Home Safe Hearth & Chimney, Inc. Wichita, Kansas

Professional Organizations:
Member, National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG)
Member, Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA)
Member, Kansas Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps (KGPCS)
Member, Midwest Chimney Safety Council (MCSC)
Member, Kansas Association of Real Estate Inspectors (KAREI)
Past At-Large Director of the National Chimney Sweep Guild
Past At-Large Director of the Chimney Safety Institute of America
Past Secretary, National Chimney Sweep Guild
Past Secretary, Chimney Safety Institute of America
Member, National Chimney Sweep Guild Technical Advisory Council
Member, Chimney Safety Institute of America Certification Committee
Past Chairman, CSIA Chimney Safety Education Brochures Committee
Past Chairman, NCSG Nomination Committee

Publications:
SWEEPING Magazine, The Journal of Chimney & Venting Technoloty, A Publication of the National Chimney Sweep Guild
SNEWS, The Chimney Sweep News
THE KANSAS SWEEP, The Voice of the KS Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps

Education/Credentials:
BA, Wichita State University
C.S.I.A. Certified Chimney Sweep
C.S.I.A. Certified Dryer Exhaust Technician
N.F.I. Woodburning Specialist
N.F.I. Gas Specialist
Chimney Diagnosis & Documentation Seminar
Ahren's Masonry Restoration School Graduate
Advanced Gas Certification
Master Gas Certification
Licensed Mechanical Contractor
Pellet Appliance Specialist
Venting Design Specialist
Dale Carnegie Course Graduate

Awards and Honors:
Superior Dealer Award, Ventinox Chimney Lining Systems

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