Chimney flue repair from local pros in Lake Mann Gardens

Working from the top of the chimney

Much flue repair is done from the roof, especially at the top sections. Access depends on roof pitch, height and how the chimney sits on the roof.

We assess access during the inspection and explain what equipment will be used. If solar panels, fragile roofing or plantings are near the work, let us know so we can plan around them. Tall chimneys may need ladder standoffs, roof anchors or staging. We tell you what equipment will be on the property, where it will stand and how the roof surface is protected while we work at the top.

What should never go into the fireplace

The EPA's Burn Wise program lists household trash, including cardboard, plastics, foam and colored inks, along with coated, painted or pressure-treated wood, among the things never to burn. Garbage smoke can also leave stubborn deposits inside a flue.

Paper and cardboard also flare quickly and can send burning pieces up the chimney. After a flue repair, stick to dry firewood and a starter made for fireplaces, and give the new work an easy first season. Glossy magazines and wrapping paper belong in the recycling bin, not the firebox.

Square, rectangular and round clay flues

Clay flue tiles come in square, rectangular and round shapes and in many sizes. The flue in your chimney was built with one shape and size, and repairs have to match it.

Before replacing a section, we measure the existing tile and confirm a matching size is available. When an exact match cannot be found, we explain the alternatives and what each means for the joint. Older chimneys sometimes use sizes that are no longer common, especially in rectangular tile. Where a stock match does not exist, a local repair may not be possible, and we say so before anything is removed.

What decides the size of a flue repair

No two flue repairs are the same size. The scope depends on the findings, and each factor is spelled out in the estimate.

We explain each factor that applies to your chimney and how it shapes the recommendation.

• How many sections are damaged and where
• How tall the chimney is and how it is reached
• Whether the flue has offsets
• The product or material the repair needs
• Cleaning and preparation before the repair
• Related work at the crown, cap or smoke chamber