Chimney Rebuild and Full Construction

When to Rebuild a Chimney

There are several signs that indicate it may be time to rebuild a chimney, including cracks in the chimney, crumbling mortar, and leaning or tilting chimneys. Additionally, if a chimney is more than 50 years old, it may be time to consider rebuilding it.

We at Portland Fireplace & Chimney have years of experience in dealing with the ins and outs of chimney management. Whether the chimney needs simple maintenance or a full rebuild, we would be more than happy to let you know if your chimney is ready for us to take care of it.

Materials Used in Chimney Rebuilds

There are several types of materials used in chimney construction, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common materials Portland Fireplace & Chimney uses include:

• Brick: Durable, long-lasting, and visually appealing, brick is a popular choice for chimney construction. However, it can be expensive and requires a skilled mason to install properly.
• Stone: Similar to brick, stone chimneys are also durable and visually appealing. However, they can be even more expensive than brick, and they require a skilled mason to install.
• Concrete: Strong and relatively inexpensive, concrete chimneys can be a good option for those on a budget. However, they are not as visually appealing as brick or stone.
• Metal: Metal chimneys are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. However, they are not as durable as masonry chimneys and may require more maintenance.

Different Chimney Designs

One of the first things we can discuss in a chimney rebuild is the design of your new chimney. There are several different chimney designs available, each with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common chimney designs include:

• Traditional masonry chimneys: Built with brick or stone, traditional masonry chimneys are durable and visually appealing. However, they can be expensive and require a skilled mason to install.
• Pre-fabricated chimneys: Made from metal, pre-fabricated chimneys are lightweight and relatively easy to install. However, they are not as durable as masonry chimneys.
• Masonry veneer chimneys: Similar to traditional masonry chimneys, masonry veneer chimneys are built with a brick or stone facade over a lightweight frame. They are less expensive than traditional masonry chimneys but still offer a similar visual appeal.
• Metal chimneys: Made from stainless steel or other metals, metal chimneys are lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. However, they are not as durable as masonry chimneys and may require more maintenance.