By Emerson Pro Services – Your Texas Experts in Chimney & Masonry Repairs
Older chimneys add charm and character to homes, but they also come with a unique set of structural risks, especially regarding masonry. Over time, brick and mortar can deteriorate due to weather, age, and poor maintenance. Left unchecked, these issues can lead to costly repairs and serious fire hazards.
At Emerson Pro Services, we specialize in chimney repair, masonry restoration, and fireplace maintenance across Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston. If your home has an aging chimney, here’s what you should be watching for—and how we can help you fix it.
🧱 1. Cracked or Spalling Bricks
One of the most common signs of masonry failure is spalling—when bricks begin to flake, chip, or fall apart due to water infiltration and freeze-thaw cycles. Cracked bricks are also standard and can weaken the chimney’s structure.
How to Fix It:
Damaged bricks should be replaced immediately through tuckpointing or full brick replacement. Waterproofing the chimney exterior can help prevent future damage.
🧱 2. Deteriorating Mortar Joints
Mortar joints are the glue holding your chimney together. In older chimneys, mortar can become powdery, fall out, or crack over time, weakening the entire structure and creating spaces for moisture to seep in.
How to Fix It:
Repointing or tuckpointing the mortar joints—removing the old, damaged mortar and replacing it with new material—restores strength and appearance.
🧱 3. Leaning or Tilting Chimney
If your chimney appears to be leaning away from your home, it’s a serious structural red flag. A settling foundation, poor construction, or years of neglect could cause this.
How to Fix It:
Depending on the severity, this issue may require foundation repair, reinforcement, or a partial chimney rebuild. A chimney inspection from a professional masonry contractor is critical to determining the right course of action.
🧱 4. Cracked Chimney Crown
In older chimneys, the chimney crown (the topmost part that protects against rain and debris) often develops cracks. These cracks let water penetrate the structure, leading to internal damage and further brick deterioration.
How to Fix It:
Minor cracks can be sealed with waterproof crown coating. In more severe cases, the entire crown may need to be rebuilt to prevent long-term moisture damage.
🧱 5. Damaged or Missing Flashing
Flashing is the metal strip that seals the joint between the chimney and the roof. Over time, flashing can rust, become loose, or go missing—leading to leaks and interior water damage.
How to Fix It:
To create a watertight seal, damaged flashing should be replaced with new, properly installed flashing. We recommend waterproofing around the base to ensure long-lasting protection.
🧰 Why Choose Emerson Pro Services?
We bring years of experience in chimney masonry repairs, inspections, and full-service restoration. Whether your chimney needs minor mortar repairs or a complete rebuild, our skilled team ensures your home is safe, efficient, and beautiful, without compromising its original charm.
🏠 Schedule Your Chimney Masonry Inspection Today
Protect your home’s safety and value with professional masonry services from Emerson Pro Services. Serving Dallas, Fort Worth, and Houston, we’re here to restore and repair your chimney with expert care.
📍 Serving Houston, Fort Worth & Dallas, Texas
📞 Call Now: 469-414-9195
🌐 Website: www.emersonproservices.com
📧 Email: info@emersonproservices.com
