Chimney Repair & Rebuilding Services
Expert chimney repair and rebuilding that keeps your home safe and your fireplace working properly in Santa Clara, CA.
Your chimney does more than just vent smoke. It protects your home from dangerous gases, prevents water damage, and keeps your heating system running safely. When your chimney develops cracks, leans, or shows signs of deterioration, you need professional help right away. At SCM Santa Clara Masonry, we specialize in chimney repair and complete rebuilds throughout Santa Clara and surrounding areas.
We have seen every type of chimney problem you can imagine. From minor mortar repairs to complete structural rebuilds, our team brings the right skills and experience to every project. We understand Santa Clara building codes, work safely at heights, and use quality materials that stand up to weather and heat. Your family's safety is our top priority, and we never cut corners when it comes to chimney work.
Common Chimney Problems We Fix
Chimneys face constant stress from heat, weather, and age. Most chimney problems start small but get worse quickly if you ignore them. Water is the biggest enemy of chimneys. Once it gets past your chimney cap or through cracks in the masonry, it causes rapid deterioration from the inside out.
Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair
- •Cracked or missing mortar joints between bricks
- •Leaning or tilting chimney stack indicating structural failure
- •Spalling bricks where the face is flaking off
- •Damaged or missing chimney crown allowing water inside
- •Rust stains on the chimney exterior from damaged flashing
- •White staining (efflorescence) showing water penetration
- •Smoke backing up into your home instead of venting properly
If you notice any of these problems, call us for an inspection. A damaged chimney is not just an eyesore. It is a safety hazard that can lead to carbon monoxide problems, house fires, or structural damage. We can usually spot issues that homeowners miss and recommend the most cost-effective repairs.
Chimney Repair vs. Complete Rebuild
Not every chimney problem requires a complete rebuild. We always recommend the most affordable solution that fixes your issue permanently. Here is how we decide between repair and rebuild.
When Repair Works
If your chimney structure is basically sound, repairs can extend its life for many more years. We can replace damaged bricks, repoint deteriorated mortar joints, rebuild the chimney crown, install new flashing, and fix minor cracks. These repairs typically cost much less than a full rebuild and can be completed in a few days.
When You Need a Rebuild
Sometimes a chimney is too far gone to repair economically. If your chimney is leaning more than an inch or two, has widespread spalling throughout, shows evidence of significant settling, or has major structural cracks, rebuilding is the safer and more cost-effective option. We tear down the damaged portion and rebuild it correctly from the ground up.
During a rebuild, we also bring everything up to current building codes. This includes proper flue liner installation, adequate clearances from combustible materials, correct chimney height, and weatherproof chimney caps. You end up with essentially a new chimney that will last 50 years or more. For related structural work, check out our brick repair and restoration services.
Our Chimney Repair Process
Thorough Inspection
We start every chimney project with a detailed inspection. We examine your chimney from the roof down to the foundation. We check the flue liner, damper, firebox, and all exterior masonry. We use levels to measure any leaning and cameras to inspect inside the flue. Then we explain exactly what we found and what needs to be done.
Safety First Approach
Chimney work happens high off the ground, so safety is critical. We use proper scaffolding, fall protection, and work platforms. We protect your roof and landscaping with tarps. We follow all OSHA safety requirements because we want our team and your property protected.
Quality Materials and Workmanship
We source high-quality bricks that match your existing chimney as closely as possible. We use the right mortar mix for chimney applications, which differs from standard masonry mortar. We install stainless steel flue liners when needed and use proper flashing materials that resist rust and leaks. Every brick is laid level and plumb, and every mortar joint is tooled correctly.
Complete Cleanup
When we finish your chimney project, we clean up thoroughly. We haul away all debris, sweep your roof clean, and make sure no nails or materials are left behind. We want you to be impressed with both our workmanship and our professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Chimney Repair or Rebuilding?
Get a free inspection and honest assessment of your chimney from experienced professionals.
Call (669) 326-6241