Open or sandy mortar joints
What we check: How much of each joint has failed and whether the surrounding brick is sound.
Possible repair: Repoint the affected joints when the masonry can support a focused repair.
Understand the repair
The right repair depends on what failed
From the ground, several masonry problems can look alike. We check the accessible joints, brick, crown, movement, and possible water paths before recommending a scope.
Flaking or loose brick
What we check: Which bricks and courses are damaged, and whether adjacent masonry is stable.
Possible repair: Replace damaged brick and repair adjoining joints as the scope requires.
Cracked crown or shoulder
What we check: The extent of damage at the chimney top and where water may enter.
Possible repair: Repair or rebuild the crown or shoulder separately from sound brickwork.
Leaning or widespread deterioration
What we check: Movement, stability, and how far the damage extends above the roofline.
Possible repair: Consider a larger rebuild when a smaller repair would leave failed masonry in place.
A water stain needs its own diagnosis
Rain may enter at mortar joints, the crown, cap, or flashing. A stain alone cannot tell us which part needs work. See our broader chimney repair guide if the source is unclear.
If brick is loose or the chimney appears to lean, keep people clear of the area below and request an assessment. Do not climb onto the roof to inspect it yourself.
Repointing and material matching
Repointing—often called tuckpointing—replaces deteriorated mortar in existing joints. The new mortar must suit the brick and remaining mortar, especially on older chimneys; appearance is only part of the choice. The National Park Service explains why mortar compatibility matters.
What affects the estimate?
The affected sides and height, number of damaged bricks, roof access, materials, crown work, and any permit or historic review can change the scope. Your written estimate should identify the work and total price. For sourced examples of different scopes, read our Philadelphia chimney repair cost guide.
Your masonry assessment
Know what the estimate will cover
We assess the affected masonry and explain the proposed repair before you decide whether to proceed.
Visible brick, mortar, crown, and shoulder condition where safely accessible
Whether the damage is isolated, widespread, or shows movement
Relevant water paths at the masonry and roofline
Written scope and price identifying the affected area and proposed materials
Request a Chimney Masonry Estimate
Tell us what you are seeing and share your ZIP. We will confirm the appropriate visit and explain how the written masonry estimate works.
- Written estimate — review the scope first
- Accessible findings explained before work
- Proposed scope and price provided in writing
- Appointment details confirmed with you
Prefer to call? (888) 250-8841
Colleen DiDonato
3 reviews · 14 photosVery happy with the work Franklin did at my house. Came out and gave an estimate and had work done same day. The crew cleaned, capped, pointed three chimneys and added a very stubborn flue connected to the boiler.
Tim Schwarz
Local Guide · 47 reviews · 22 photosSelling my house, and I wanted the chimney inspected They found an issue, and they were able to fix it super fast! Good people!
Nicole Saggese
3 reviews · 4 photosFranklin Chimney did a wonderful job fixing my chimney and putting in a stainless-steel liner and cap on top of my chimney. They came out quickly for an estimate and did the work in the same week. They were very professional and explained everything they would be doing before the job started. I highly recommend them to anyone looking for honest, reliable, and high-quality service. Thank you for making this such a great experience!
Patty Fox
2 reviewsI had an emergency situation that needed immediate help. Franklin chimney came the next morning and estimated the job for me. The estimate was totally in line with the research other companies that I had done and Franklin came out the next day to do the job. I am so relieved to have this major problem in my house corrected. They were great communicators, on time, clean, fair, professional, and did a great job I could not recommend them more.
Barrett Miller
Local Guide · 33 reviews · 20 photosVery prompt great response time. Very good communication, skilled workforce clean and fast Very professional
Karim Mullen
4 reviews · 4 photosI called Franklin Chimney, they came out accessed my situation and worked with me. They also did and amazing job.
Karen Hudson
4 reviews · 2 photosIt was a great experience working with Madi. The work was done professionally, timely and to my satisfaction.
Vince Souto
9 reviews · 1 photoThank you for a Great job!
Carolyn Brewington
3 reviewsLady was a great person to work with, they came to assess and completed the liner in my chimney I feel safe now and can turn on my heaters knowing I’m safe.
Sheronn BH
9 reviewsThey arrived early. Completed job timely. Kept area clean.
Meggie McCarthy-White
3 reviewsWe needed a level 2 chimney inspection on a quick timeline for our HOA. Franklin Chimney came out in less than 48 hours. Booking was very easy and price was significantly better than competitors. Our technician Madi was very efficient and made sure we had the report we needed.
Ryan McQueen
1 reviewTony was honest, excellent, and professional in my home. Strongly recommend
john herron
6 reviewsA great experience. The workmanship was exceptional and the pricing was way under other estimates. No overselling and high quality finish work. Count me very happy.
Gail Klenk
1 reviewThanks you for Franklin chimney for a wonderful job, they did the chimney liner professional and clean job
Chrissy Newton
1 reviewI called Franklin Chimney when I noticed flies coming out of my wood burning stove. Maty was here within an hour. He sent a drone up on my roof and discovered a few holes in the mesh that was easy access for birds or squirrels to enter. He sent 2 guys out the next day. They were friendly, efficient and fast. They removed 4 birds and a squirrel. Put a new cap on chimney and sealed it off with mesh. They were done in about 2 hours. I highly recommend Franklin Chimney....thank you for doing a great job!
gabe cariola
2 reviewsView on Google
Real Philadelphia work
A chimney rebuild, before and after
On this Philadelphia project, damaged upper brickwork was rebuilt from the roofline to the crown. The completed work included a rebuilt crown and a replacement cap. The photos show the visible change in the masonry.
A written estimate for your chimney should identify the affected area, proposed materials, work, and total price.
How masonry work starts
From the visible damage to a written repair scope
You can review the findings, proposed materials, price, and work-specific terms before approving the work.
Step 1
Describe the Damage
Tell us about open joints, loose brick, crown cracks, leaning, or stains. Photos taken from the ground can help.
Your symptoms matter
Step 2
Assess the Masonry
We check the relevant accessible areas and document the visible condition where useful.
Affected area identified
Step 3
Review the Written Scope
See the recommended repair, proposed materials, price, exclusions, and applicable approval needs.
Clear decision
Step 4
Complete Approved Work
We carry out the agreed work and explain what was done and any follow-up care.
Work explained
Financing Available
Financing for Chimney Masonry Repair
Financing is available for eligible chimney projects. Review the written estimate first, then ask about current payment options. Financing is subject to provider approval and plan terms.
Ask About FinancingSee the complete work scope and total price before choosing a payment option
Ask which financing plans are available for your project
Review the lender’s payment schedule and terms before applying
Common Questions
Answers Before You Call
Still Have Questions?
Tell us what you have noticed. We can explain the next step and how a written repair estimate works.
Written scope PA HIC registered Licensed & Insured 5.0 ★ on Google