How Much to Repair Fireplace Cracks?
There is no set estimate for how much to repair fireplace cracks, but it can cost anywhere from $150 to $3,000. It is important to keep your chimney in good repair. This will help protect your home from potential damage, and will save you money in the long run.
(Looking for fireplace gas key? Contact us today!)
Cracks are one of the most common problems that can happen to your chimney. These are usually located at the corners and may extend down the back of the chimney. If left untreated, these cracks can cause structural damage and can even lead to a fire. They can also allow smoke and carbon monoxide to escape into the home. You should have your chimney inspected regularly to make sure that there are no issues, as untreated problems can cause structural damage and can be expensive to fix.
Cracks can be repaired with a variety of solutions. Tuckpointing is a process that involves filling in mortar joints with fresh mortar. Typically, this repair is used for aesthetic reasons, but in some cases, it is necessary to replace the bricks or mortar. Repointing can be more costly and requires precise work.
In addition to preventing leaks, tuckpointing will also prevent your chimney from falling down. When you have the cracks filled in, you should apply a waterproof elastomeric coating. Keeping your chimney clean and free of debris can also reduce the risk of future cracks.
Cracks and gaps in mortar joints can allow water and moisture to enter your chimney. Leaving these cracks unfilled can lead to serious water damage, mold, and wood rot. The damage can also lead to rusty dampers.
Whether you need to repair a small or large crack, you can find an affordable solution that will fit your budget. Small cracks may only need to be caulked. However, more substantial repairs could include replacing the mortar or rebuilding the entire facade of your chimney. A new clay tile flue liner can be as expensive as $7,000.
Chimney crowns are a masonry slab that sits on top of your chimney stack and helps protect your chimney from rain and other weather elements. Crowns can be repaired or replaced for about $220 to $2,000, depending on the condition of the crown.
Damaged bricks and mortar can affect the performance of your fireplace, as well as the safety of your family. Over time, bricks can become loose and spalling can occur. Individual bricks can even become broken. Spalling can lead to cracks in the facade of your chimney. Both of these issues can lead to structural damage, and a more severe case could require the replacement of your chimney.
If your fireplace or chimney is damaged, do not use it until it is fixed. Using a damaged fireplace can worsen the problem and increase the chances of a fire. Do not attempt any major repairs until you have a professional examine the problem.
Regardless of the type of fireplace or chimney that you have, you should have it inspected on a regular basis. Not only will this prevent larger, more expensive issues from occurring, it will also ensure that your family’s safety is protected.