A roofing contractor had damage this chimney at the roofline flashing transition area. The roofer had taken a grinder and ground through the masonry cells to install flashing. Masonry flashing is to be installed in each horizontal bed joint to limit expansion and contraction and divert water away from the chimney cells. The chimney was broken at the roofline and wobbled back-and-forth when touched by hand. This broken area of masonry was causing leaking and damage. The correct way to fix this problem is to take the chimney down to the broken area and rebuild back up using new brick. Here you can see the extensive damage from poor flashing and water intrusion.
We took this chimney down to the roofline and rebuilt it using new brick matching as close to the original as was available. We built a new crown with the existing 12″ x 16″ flue tiles. We also supplied and installed new black roof and masonry counter flashing it with ice and water shield as necessary to ensure no leaking around this chimney. Last but not least, we supplied and installed a new top plate with collar. You can see the finished product, with proper flashing, here.
This is another great example of the importance of hiring a certified chimney sweep who is trained to properly inspect your fireplace and chimney. All of our estimates and work comply with the specifications of the National Fire Protection Association code book 211, this is the national standard for chimneys, fireplaces and venting. We are tested on International Building Code 2015 edition for seismic retrofitting (earthquake) and The American Masonry Institute standards of proper masonry water proofing repair, and we are also a EPA trained Lead based paint renovation certified firm, for those bad lead based painted chimneys out there. To our knowledge, no other company in the Portland Metro area carries and maintains all 4 of these credentials. The owner Louis is also the youngest vice president ever motioned into position in the history of the Oregon Chimney Sweep Association. Every May he proctors an exam test for the association for new companies who want to become certified to increase the quality and integrity of work provided in the trade. Please visit the Oregon Chimney Sweep Association page. www.ocsa.com Have a project? Need an inspection? Called Portland Fireplace and Chimney at (503) 758-4710 today!
