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Chimney repair in Murfreesboro

Chimneys take more weather than any other masonry on a house. Here's what usually goes wrong, what the fix involves, and how to get quotes from local pros. We're a referral service, not a chimney company.

Common chimney problems

Cracked crown

The crown is the cement cap on top of the brick. Once it cracks, water runs straight down into the chimney with every rain.

Missing or rusted cap

The metal cap over the flue keeps out rain, leaves and animals. A missing one lets all three in.

Leaks at the roofline

Water stains on the ceiling or wall beside the fireplace often trace to failed flashing where the chimney meets the roof.

Eroded joints & loose brick

Mortar near the top of the chimney weathers fastest. Loose bricks up there are a falling hazard as well as a leak.

Spalling

Brick faces flaking off, often after water has soaked in and frozen through Middle Tennessee's winter swings.

Leaning or separating

A chimney pulling away from the house, or cracks where it meets the wall, can mean footing or structural problems.

Masonry repair vs. chimney sweep work

Chimney jobs split into two trades, and it helps to know which one you need:

Masonry work is the brick and mortar: crowns, repointing, brick replacement, and rebuilding the chimney above the roofline.
Sweep and flue work is the inside: cleaning, inspecting and relining the flue, and dampers. Many chimney companies do both; many masons only do the outside.

The fire-safety standard for chimneys (NFPA 211) calls for an annual inspection. If you use your fireplace and haven't had the flue looked at, ask whoever you call whether they inspect the inside too, or whether you'll need a separate sweep.

If you see smoke where it shouldn't be, cracked flue tiles, or a chimney that has visibly shifted, don't light a fire until someone has looked at it.

What your chimney quote should cover

Exactly what's included: crown, cap, flashing, repointing, number of courses rebuilt, and whether the flue is part of it.
How they'll get up there and protect the roof, gutters and landscaping below.
Brick and mortar match, and the crown material and how it will overhang to shed water.
Whether a flue inspection is included, and what happens if they find damage inside.
Timeline, payment schedule, warranty and proof of insurance.

Tell us about the job

Free, no obligation. You'll get one email back with local masons you can contact directly. We're a referral service, not a contractor.