How to Repair a Masonry Chimney

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Fixing the masonry on your chimney is not a difficult job, but it is a time-consuming one. It does require lots of tools and the patience to do the job, but anyone with basic skills and the ability to follow directions will have their chimney looking almost like new in no time.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Safety Glasses
  • Masonry Mix
  • Hawk (for the masonry)
  • Trowel
  • Tuck-pointing Tool
  • Grout brush
  • Hammer
  • Brick chisel
  • Shop vac
  • Wire brush
  • Hose or spray bottle

Step1
Dig out the loose masonry with the grout rake. The chisel and hammer are for the harder spots.
Step2
Turn the rake over and make the joints larger with the flattened side. Vacuum up the dust so that it will not interfere with your repair and cause a crack in the same spot later.
Step3
Use a wire brush on the joints to remove even more dust and vacuum again.
Step4
Spray down the chimney with water to wet the joints. If the old masonry is wet, it will adhere to the new coat better.
Step5
Mix masonry and fortifier according to directions. The mix is ready when it is thick, but you are still able to work it.
Step6
Add masonry on your hawk and lay it close to the chimney as you use the tuck-pointing tool to pack the joints with the masonry.
Step7
Scrap off the excess masonry after it has had a half hour to set. This is to make sure the joints are flush with the bricks.
Step8
Spray the masonry down again with water. Otherwise it might dry too quickly and crack.
Step9
Brush the chimney with a stiff broom a few days after it has dried to remove the excess sand and dust.

Tips & Warnings

  • Make sure your masonry mix has absorbed all the water before using.
  • Don't repair your masonry when it is extremely hot since the mix needs to remain wet to dry and set properly.
  • If your roof is steep or high up, you may need fall protection equipment to make sure you do not get hurt.

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eHow Article:  How to Repair a Masonry Chimney

eHow Home & Garden Editor

eHow Home & Garden Editor

Category: Home & Garden

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