The mortar keeping your chimney together will eventually deteriorate from elemental exposure. Pointing is a form of chimney repair that replaces the damaged mortar to prevent moisture infiltration and partial or full collapses. If you recently purchased your first home, it may need renovations if it is older, including those concerning the chimney. Take a minute to familiarize yourself with this process to determine if it’s right for you.

4 Common Questions About Chimney Pointing

Is chimney pointing the same as rebuilding?

Unlike chimney rebuilding, which removes the existing structure and replaces it with new materials, pointing trades decayed mortar for a fresh counterpart. Homeowners request this type of chimney repair when the bricks are in good condition and haven’t spalled. Mortar lasts up to 25 years — compared to brick, which can survive for 100 years — before it needs replacing. 

How often should I schedule pointing?

If the mortar on your new home has not been replaced since the house was built, have a contractor check if you need chimney repair services. You may not have to get the mortar replaced for another 20 or so years; however, your region’s climate can call for more frequent replacements. If you live in an area with severe winters, the mortar may need replacing every 10 or 15 years due to harsh freeze-thaw cycles.

What pointing materials are best?

The right mortar for your chimney repair project must match or at least be similar to the original. If the chimney features Type N mortar comprised of one-part lime, one-part Portland cement, and six-parts sand, for example, the same material should be used for pointing. The same is true of any other mortar, such as Type K mortar made of one-part Portland cement, three-parts lime, and 10-parts sand. Type N offers medium compressive strength compared to Type K, which should be used for masonry on historic buildings only.

What are some signs you need chimney repair?

Mortar and stucco pieces start accumulating around the base of your chimney or where the roof and chimney meet when the structure needs repair. You may also notice water stains on the ceiling or in the fireplace because the mortar no longer keeps moisture out. Other signs to watch for include smoke streaming through the mortar and brick instead of above the structure.

Don’t wait to schedule this essential chimney repair. Contact Precision Pointing & Restoration, the family-owned company that’s served the Greater Pittsburgh, PA area since 2007. Call (412) 292-7585 today to schedule an appointment or visit the customer-oriented business online to request an estimate.