Chimney Stack Restoration | Southend

Project Overview

This project focused on essential structural repairs to a chimney stack that was suffering from severe mortar degradation. The primary objective was to restore the chimney’s integrity and safety by completely repointing the brickwork and rebuilding the flaunching, thereby preventing water ingress and protecting the stack from further decay.

Before: The mortar joints had eroded and crumbled away due to prolonged weather exposure, weakening the brickwork. Crucially, the cement flaunching at the top of the stack was cracked and failing, compromising the security of the chimney pot and allowing water to penetrate the structure from above.

After: It is now structurally sound, fully weatherproof, and secure. The new mortar joints are clean and solid, and the rebuilt flaunching provides robust protection for the top of the stack. The entire structure now looks sharp, well-maintained, and is protected for many years to come.

The Process

Raking Out
- The first step was to carefully rake out all the old, loose, and decayed mortar from the brickwork joints to a suitable depth. This creates a clean, solid key for the new mortar to adhere to.
Surface Preparation
- The entire chimney stack was brushed down to remove all dust, moss, and debris, ensuring the surfaces were perfectly prepared for repointing.
Repointing the Brickwork
- A purpose-mixed mortar, designed for its strength and weather resistance, was expertly applied into the prepared joints. Each joint was then tooled to create a clean, compressed, and weatherproof finish.
Rebuilding the Flaunching
- The old, cracked cement flaunching was completely removed. A new, robust sand and cement mix was applied, creating a solid, angled top that secures the chimney pot and effectively sheds rainwater.
Lead Flashing Check
- The lead flashing at the base of the chimney was inspected and dressed back into place to ensure a watertight seal with the roof.
Final Cleanup
- Once the work was complete, the roof and surrounding area were cleared of all debris, leaving the property tidy.

Conclusion

This chimney restoration in Southend was a critical maintenance project executed to the highest standard. By addressing the mortar failure, we have eliminated the risk of water damage and potential structural issues, ensuring the chimney is safe and secure. The client was very pleased with the professional service and the quality of the finished work.