Chimney Repair & Rebuilding Services
Professional chimney repair and rebuilding services keeping Berkeley homes safe and functional.
Your chimney does more than add character to your roofline. It's a critical safety feature that channels dangerous gases out of your home. When chimneys develop cracks, lean, or show signs of deterioration, you're not just looking at a cosmetic issue. You're dealing with a potential carbon monoxide risk and fire hazard that needs immediate attention.
We've been repairing and rebuilding chimneys throughout Berkeley for over two decades. From earthquake damage to water intrusion and simple aging, we've seen every type of chimney problem you can imagine. More importantly, we know how to fix them properly so they'll last for another generation. Let's talk about what's going on with your chimney and get it safe again.
Warning Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair
Most homeowners don't spend much time looking at their chimneys until something goes obviously wrong. But there are early warning signs that can save you thousands of dollars if you catch them early.
Visible Cracks and Separation
Cracks in your chimney crown or bricks aren't just cosmetic issues. They let water inside, and once water gets into your masonry, it causes accelerated damage through freeze-thaw cycles. If you see gaps between your chimney and roof, or if the chimney appears to be pulling away from your house, that's serious structural movement that needs immediate evaluation.
Leaning or Tilting
A chimney should stand perfectly vertical. Any visible lean means the foundation has shifted or failed. This is especially common in Berkeley due to soil movement and seismic activity. A leaning chimney is extremely dangerous because it can collapse without warning. If your chimney has any tilt at all, call us immediately for an emergency inspection.
- Cracked or deteriorating chimney crown allowing water penetration
- Damaged or missing flashing causing roof leaks around the chimney
- Spalling bricks or crumbling mortar joints compromising stability
- White staining (efflorescence) indicating moisture problems
- Visible lean or tilt suggesting foundation failure
- Rust stains or damaged chimney cap allowing animal entry
Chimney Repair vs. Complete Rebuild
Not every chimney problem requires a complete rebuild. We always start with the most cost-effective solution that keeps your chimney safe and functional. Here's how we decide what your chimney needs.
When Repair Is Enough
If damage is limited to the upper portion of the chimney, we can often repair just that section. Common repairs include replacing the chimney crown, installing new flashing, repointing mortar joints, replacing damaged bricks, or rebuilding the top few courses. We can also repair or replace chimney caps, install new liners, and fix minor cracks. These repairs typically cost significantly less than a full rebuild and can extend your chimney's life by many years.
When Rebuilding Makes Sense
If your chimney has extensive structural damage, severe leaning, or deterioration throughout its height, rebuilding is the safer choice. We carefully dismantle the existing chimney down to the roofline (or further if needed), inspect and repair the foundation, then rebuild using matched materials. While rebuilding costs more upfront, it gives you essentially a new chimney with a fresh warranty and peace of mind that it meets current safety codes.
The Inspection Process
During our inspection, we examine your chimney inside and out. We check the flue liner, fireplace connections, structural integrity, and all masonry components. We use levels to detect any lean and probes to check mortar condition. You'll get photos of problem areas and a detailed explanation of what we found. If you're buying a Berkeley home, we can provide pre-purchase chimney inspections to help you make informed decisions.
Complete Chimney Services in Berkeley
We handle every aspect of chimney work, from minor repairs to complete rebuilds. Our team has the equipment, experience, and licensing to work safely at height and deliver lasting results.
Chimney crown repair and replacement protects the top of your chimney from water damage. We rebuild crowns with proper slope and overhang, then seal them to prevent cracking. Flashing replacement stops those annoying roof leaks that happen every time it rains. We install multi-layer flashing systems that create weathertight seals even in heavy Berkeley storms.
For chimneys that need rebuilding, we handle all necessary permits and ensure compliance with California building codes and Berkeley's specific requirements. Our masons are skilled at matching original brick styles to maintain your home's historic character. We can work with antique bricks or source modern alternatives that blend seamlessly.
Every chimney project includes thorough cleanup. We protect your landscaping, collect all debris, and leave your property cleaner than we found it. If we're working on an active fireplace, we coordinate scheduling to minimize disruption to your home heating. For urgent repairs, we offer expedited service to get your chimney safe quickly.
Don't wait until your chimney fails completely. Early intervention saves money and prevents dangerous situations. Call us at (341) 212-0768 to schedule your free chimney inspection. We'll give you an honest assessment and clear pricing with no hidden fees or surprise charges.