How To Repair a Brick Chimney

Brick chimneys take a beating in Alberta. Between moisture, freeze-thaw cycles and seasonal temperature swings, it is common to see cracked mortar, loose bricks or early signs of deterioration over time. 

Some minor chimney repairs can be handled by homeowners, but roofing-related issues like flashing should always be inspected and repaired professionally to prevent leaks. 

How Much Does Chimney Repair Cost? 

If you are handling basic chimney repairs yourself, costs can stay relatively manageable. 

Simple fixes like patching small cracks or applying masonry sealant may cost $100 to $500 in materials. Repointing mortar joints on a small section of chimney can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on how much area needs attention. 

However, costs increase quickly if water has already entered the roof system or if flashing needs to be replaced. Chimney flashing repairs typically fall between $800 and $2,500, depending on roof complexity and accessibility. 

Because flashing ties directly into your roofing system, it is one area where professional work is strongly recommended. A qualified roofer in Red Deer can identify issues that are not visible from the ground and ensure repairs are done correctly. 

How to Handle Basic Brick and Mortar Repairs 

For homeowners who are comfortable working on their chimneys, smaller repairs usually focus on mortar and surface-level damage. 

Repointing is the most common repair. This involves removing loose or crumbling mortar between the bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. The key is removing enough of the old material to allow the new mortar to bond properly without damaging the surrounding bricks. 

If a brick is cracked or spalling, it can be removed and replaced individually. This requires carefully chiselling out the damaged brick, cleaning the cavity and setting a new brick in place with fresh mortar. 

Once repairs are complete, applying a breathable masonry sealant can help protect the chimney from moisture while still allowing it to release trapped vapour. 

These types of repairs can extend the life of your chimney, but they do not address issues where the chimney meets the roof. 

Why Chimney Flashing Should Be Professionally Repaired 

The most common cause of chimney leaks is not the brick itself, but the flashing around the base. Flashing is designed to create a watertight seal between the chimney and the roof. When it fails, water can enter beneath the shingles and cause damage inside the home. 

Proper flashing repair involves removing surrounding roofing materials, installing new step flashing and counter flashing and sealing everything correctly to direct water away from the chimney. 

This is not a surface-level fix. It requires roofing expertise, proper materials and an understanding of how water moves across the roof, especially in Alberta, where melting snow can expose even small installation flaws. 

If you are repairing your chimney yourself, it is still a good idea to have the flashing inspected. Small gaps or improper sealing can lead to costly issues later. 

Get Your Chimney and Roof Properly Inspected 

Taking care of minor chimney repairs yourself can help extend its lifespan, but your roof is where most of the risks usually develop. 

Alberta Roof Experts provides professional inspections and chimney flashing repairs across Red Deer and Central Alberta. If you have noticed leaks, worn flashing or signs of damage around your chimney, our team can identify the problem and fix the areas that matter most.  

Contact AB Roof Experts today to book an inspection and make sure your roof and chimney connection is fully protected.