Chimney rebuilding above the roofline in West Tampa

Choosing brick for an exposed chimney

A chimney is exposed to the weather on every side, so the brick has to be durable. BIA's chimney guidance calls for face brick of the severe-weathering grade, Grade SW, under ASTM C216 or C62.

Softer brick salvaged from interior walls or bought for looks alone may not stand up to that exposure. Matching color matters, but durability comes first. Brick that looks right but soaks up water quickly will not last long at the top of a chimney.

We source brick that meets the grade and comes as close as possible to your existing chimney, and show you a sample before ordering.

Choosing between clay flue tile and a listed liner

The state code accepts four kinds of lining, namely clay flue tile, a UL 1777 listed lining system, a listed factory-built chimney unit made to sit inside masonry, or another approved material.

In a partial rebuild, the new section usually continues the lining that remains below. When the old lining is damaged along its length, a listed metal liner run from top to bottom can be the better choice.

We explain which lining suits your chimney and your appliance, and price the flue work as its own line.

Keeping wood framing away from the rebuilt chimney

Wood framing stays 2 inches clear of a masonry chimney that sits indoors or is built into an exterior wall, and 1 inch clear of one standing wholly outside, under the code. Trim and siding edges may butt against the brick only as far from the flue lining as the code allows.

That airspace is not to be filled, except with fireblocking. A rebuild that brings framing or sheathing tight against the new brick undoes the rule.

We check the clearances around the rebuilt section and tell you if any framing needs to be cut back.

Questions to ask before choosing a rebuild quote

Put the same questions to every contractor who quotes the rebuild, including us. The answers show whether the quotes describe the same job.

• Where does the removal stop, and how was that line chosen?
• What happens if the brick below the line is weaker than expected?
• Which brick grade and mortar type will be used?
• How will the flue be lined in the rebuilt section?
• What crown, cap and flashing are included?
• What will the finished height be, and does it meet the code?