Elements such as rain and cold speed up the weathering process of masonry. This may include deterioration of mortar joints and even spalling of bricks. Father & Son Masonry & Curbing Ltd. is a company specialized in repairing, rebuilding and repointing chimneys in the areas of Surrey, British Columbia, and its surroundings.
Due to the effects of time, various types of masonry will deteriorate. A fireplace means the masonry is subjected to more cycles of freeze-thaw and the effects of rain and wind. It is important to access the reasons why other building components show signs of deterioration before drawing conclusion that the chimney has also deteriorated.
There may be different types of deterioration of a chimney. Damaged mortar may need to be replaced by repointing and if the masonry has greatly deteriorated, it may need rebuilding or reconstruction. Assessment of the extent of masonry deterioration and the methods required to be employed to rebuild the masonry is determined by the inspection.
Replacement of older mortar joints should not be difficult. However, using a harder mortar may create problems.
If the mortar is deteriorated, brick masonry can also be leaning and cracking. This shows signs of deterioration.
Rebuilding of a chimney may range from the upper part to the major part of the entire structure.
It may be necessary to rebuild the greater portion of a structure if the chimney and masonry are failing structurally.
Moisture problems can also contribute to the failure of masonry. These problems can occur when moisture is trapped between different building materials. These issues can reoccur if they are not evaluated and addressed.
If large portions of the masonry of a chimney are deteriorated, it may be more cost effective to rebuild the entire chimney. Homeowners in Surrey, for instance, may want to consider a complete chimney rebuild rather than continued minor repairs.
There are other ways to make a deteriorated chimney serviceable.
If water entry points are not addressed, water can penetrate through brickwork and masonry, causing further deterioration, even if “visible” brickwork is restored.
Chimney refurbishment can be an alternative to complete chimney rebuilding if the areas of masonry can be structurally supported.
Masonry can deteriorate to the point where the brick or block masonry begins to fail. A complete chimney masonry assessment may identify the failure. Evidence of water damage may include discolored stains, spalling brick, or missing or deteriorated mortar.
Concerns may include the following:
An external assessment may identify the concerns listed above.
An internal assessment of flues and safety issues with appliance combustion and venting will be covered in a chimney safety inspection. Assessment of safety of appliance combustion and venting needs to be performed by a chimney professional.
We provide restoration, repair and rebuilding of masonry and chimney services for the residential and commercial sectors.
Spalling brick masonry is caused by failure of mortar joints and is often preventable with proper maintenance and restoration of masonry.
Repair and restoration options for masonry spalling depends on the construction of the chimney and the extent of deterioration.
Our masonry repair services for the commercial sector include repair and restoration of masonry to suit the condition of the structure.
There are a greater number of considerations for the repair of a commercial structure as compared to a residential structure. These may include site access, adjacent building conditions, structural issues and safety, and other related concerns.
If the mortar joints between masonry units have failed despite previous repairs, there may be a water absorption problem that has not been addressed. Water absorption can deteriorate the units and joints of the chimney, and can cause the chimney to separate from the adjacent surface. There does not always have to be visible leaning for repairs to be warranted.
Repair of joints as they occur helps to stop the further deterioration of mortar joints. Damaged masonry units and joints should be repaired when they occur to prevent further failure. The purpose of our assessment is to evaluate the reason for damage.
It is possible that conditions may improve due to repairs made to address moisture and structural concerns.
Our primary concern is the review of the masonry and the discussion with the client regarding the scope of repairs, after which we can decide the best ways to carry out the repairs.
As part of the initial process, we will review the concerns and available information about the chimney. Pictures of the masonry can show its age, condition, and even wear.
From the information provided, we assess the condition of joints and masonry as well as the brick units. Should the chimney be structurally unsound, more assessments may be needed.
Repairs may include any of the following: replacing masonry and brick units, repointing, and rebuilding the chimney.
Damaged masonry and brick units may be removed. Surfaces and joints may be prepared for new repair mortar.
We repair masonry and mortar joints of the chimney, considering the techniques and materials used in construction of the original chimney. Repairs may be timed based on the weather to give the repair mortar an opportunity to set.
Upon completion of repairs to masonry, we assess the repaired area for quality and workmanship.
Concerns regarding safety of the combustion process and venting should be addressed by the appropriate professionals.
Depending on the damage and condition of the surrounding masonry, a number of methods are available for chimney repair.
Father and Son Masonry is based in Surrey and provides chimney and masonry services across the Lower Mainland, BC.
Services include:
The varying weather in the Lower Mainland causes temperature fluctuations and freeze/thaw cycles that affect brick and mortar.
Father and Son Masonry is located in Surrey and is nearby for all your chimney repairs in Surrey.
If there has been no movement with your chimney an assessment will be necessary to determine the next steps.
Chimney masonry work can be a simple repointing job. However, more advanced works could be required such as refurbishment or a chimney rebuild. The extent of work required will be assessed to prevent the unnecessary removal of masonry from the chimney.
For further information regarding chimney masonry work and to request a quote contact us on 604-719-5057 or email us at info@fatherandsonmasonry.ca
Repointing can extend a masonry structures service life for many years. Continuous water penetration in masonry can decrease service life.
Rebuilding a chimney involves removing much more masonry than repointing in order to stabilize the chimney. Repointing is the removal of deteriorated mortar joints and replacing with new mortar.
The climate of BC, and Surrey in particular, causes the recurring freezing and thawing of water to break down the mortar joints of chimneys.
Yes, sometimes a leaking chimney can be repaired without rebuilding it.
If the existing masonry is in good condition, repointing and/or replacement of brick may be the only work needed. Leaks can be caused by numerous things such as the condition of the chimney crown, flashing, and many other areas. Before any work is performed the location of the leak must be found.
If there is cracking and leaning throughout a large part of the chimney, then a complete rebuild may be needed. A masonry professional may be able to say if a complete rebuild is needed or if other work could be done to correct the problem and restore the chimney to a safe state.
Masonry chimneys should be routinely inspected and after extreme weather conditions.