Fireplaces, Heating Stoves, Flues and Chimneys - Contractor proposes to use silicone for chimney repair

I am purchasing a 12 year old home in Fort Worth, TX. The home inspector found mortar in chimney to be badly cracking and loose. Once it was pointed out, my wife and I could see loose brickwork from the ground. We are requiring that the chimney be repaired.

Sellers contractor proposes using to "repair and seal all cracks on chimney with pure silicone."

Has anyone heard of using silicone instead of mortar to do this kind of job. I'm afraid that they may have just found a cheap contractor to do a "just get by" type of job.

Thanks for sharing your experience.

If its that bad it should be whats called tuckpoint the whole thing. Rake or clean out the old mortar and put new in.

ED ;)

All deteriorated mortar joints need to be ground out and refilled (tuck-pointed) Any loose or damaged brick must also be replaced or repaired. The chimney cap must be inspected for cracks as well.

After all of the masonry has been repaired I would also highly recommend having the exterior chimney waterproofed using a commercial grade 7-10 year water proofing to prevent futer water damage.

It is MUCH cheaper to maintain your chimney than to completely rebuild it due to neglect. The damage can only get rapidly worse.

I would check the phone book under tuck-pointing or masonry restoration and get your own estimate to negotiate with. Better yet you should call your local masonry supplier and tell them your story, they will help you find a reputable contractor.

Best of luck

Sincerely,

Jesse R. Kirchhoff
Kirchhoff Handyman Solutions LLC
Advanced Power Washing and Restoration Services LLC
Jefferson City, Missouri E-Mail jessekirchhoff@mchsi.com