Chimney Repairs and Repointing in Reading, Basingstoke & Tadley

🧱 Our Chimney Repair Services

Our chimney work covers repointing — raking out and replacing deteriorated mortar on the stack, flaunching (the sloped mortar cap at the top), and the joints between the brickwork courses. Flashing repair and replacement — the lead or mortar seals at the junction between the chimney and the roof slope are one of the most common causes of internal water damage and need to be properly dressed to remain watertight. Chimney pot replacements, cowl fitting, and windguard installation.

For more significant structural problems, we carry out partial stack rebuilds — removing damaged brickwork above the roofline and rebuilding in matching brick. Where a chimney is no longer used and the stack is causing repeated maintenance issues, we can discuss removal or reduction as an option. Any roof repairs needed around the chimney area as part of the same visit are included as part of the job. For wider roof damage, see our roof repairs page.

⚠️ Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair

Crumbling or recessed mortar on the chimney stack is the most visible external sign — mortar that's visibly pulling away from the brick joints or falling out in pieces needs repointing before the joints open up enough to allow water into the stack. Damaged flaunching — the mortar cap around the chimney pot — is another common failure point, and once it cracks and opens up, water sits in the gap and accelerates the deterioration. Staining or a tide mark on the chimney breast wall inside the house after rain is a clear indicator that water is getting past the flashing or through the stack.

Loose or missing lead flashing at the base of the chimney, visible from the ground as a gap between the lead and the brickwork or roof covering, is a significant leak risk. A chimney that appears to lean even slightly from street level warrants immediate attention — stack lean is a structural issue and needs assessing quickly. White efflorescence (salt deposits) on the chimney face outside is often a sign that water is passing through the brickwork and evaporating on the surface.

💷 How Much Does Chimney Repair Cost in the UK?

Chimney repair costs vary depending on the type of work needed, the height of the stack, and whether scaffolding is required. Simple flashing repairs or minor repointing on an accessible single-storey section can be carried out at relatively low cost. A full chimney repoint on a standard two-storey stack — scaffolded, with all mortar joints raked out and repointed in fresh weather- resistant mix — is typically a half-day to full-day job. Partial or full stack rebuilds above the roofline are more substantial and priced accordingly.

Scaffolding is usually required for chimney work on two-storey properties, as working from a ladder at ridge height isn't safe for anything beyond a brief inspection. This adds to the overall cost but is non-negotiable for safe working. We'll give you a clear written estimate after a site inspection — chimney work is too varied to price reliably without seeing the stack.

Chimney Repairs Across Tadley, Reading & Beyond

We carry out chimney repairs throughout a 30-mile radius of Tadley, covering Reading, Basingstoke, Farnborough, Fleet, Camberley, Andover, Newbury, Bramley, and Thatcham. Call us to check if we cover your area.