What is a Chimney?

Although they are no longer as necessary for heating most homes in the UK thanks to central heating systems, your chimney likely once played an integral part in keeping your home warm. The fireplace chimney is designed to protect people inside the home by providing a vent for smoke, sparks, and toxic fumes that are the result of lighting a fire in the fireplace. Since warm air rises, it creates Read More…

What is a Chimney Breast?

A chimney breast is the part of a chimney that projects forward from the wall to create space for a fireplace. It consists of the brickwork that encases the chimney as it rises through the property and is typically found on the inside of the property, taking up space within the rooms that it passes through.  It is typically found on the ground floor of a building, with masonry that Read More…

How to Remove a Chimney

Removing an obsolete chimney breast on the ground floor is one of the most common internal home alterations. However, this often leaves just the roof void and the chimney stack in place. If the entire chimney needs to be removed, it’s important to get professional advice as building regulations will apply to the work, and planning permission may be required in some cases. The work may also be covered by Read More…

How to Patch a Hole in a Brick Chimney

Cracks and holes in the bricks or in the mortar between the bricks are some tell-tale signs that your chimney is becoming damaged. Patching cracks and holes in the brick of a chimney can save you thousands of pounds worth of repairs down the line, along with reducing your risk of chimney fires at home. Roof Safety: Patching holes in your chimney will involve working on the roof, where there Read More…

How to Block up a Chimney

Chimney problems such as draughts or birds getting in through the top can become frustrating, leading homeowners to want to block the chimney off completely. A chimney is pretty much an open passageway from inside of the home to the outdoors, which becomes a container when it is closed off. Half of the chimney is exposed to indoor temperatures while half is exposed to the temperature outside, which can cause Read More…

How Much to Replace a Chimney

Over the years, chimneys have put up with a lot, from fires being lit at the bottom of them with the rain and wind battering the chimney stack. That’s exactly why it’s so important to make sure that your chimney is well-maintained and in good condition. How much does it cost to repair or replace a chimney or its components? Chimney Flashing: The purpose of the flashing around a chimney Read More…

How Much to Rebuild a Chimney Stack

Chimney stacks can take a lot of battering from mother nature. All year round, your chimney is subjected to winds, rain, and snow while continuing to play its part in keeping your home warm if you have a traditional fire. Keeping your chimney stack in good working order and well-maintained is essential. In some cases, it may be essential to rebuild or repair your chimney stack. Repointing: If the mortar Read More…

How Does a Chimney Work?

Today, most chimneys have become redundant due to gas central heating and electric fires. However, in the past, a working chimney was absolutely essential for keeping a home warm. A chimney is based on the principle that hot air rises while cold air falls. A draft will need to be created inside of the chimney for it to work well. Inside of the chimney, the air needs to be warmer Read More…