Chimney Repairs

Your chimney is more than an architectural focal point; it’s a complex structure that plays a vital role in the safety and integrity of your home. However, its constant exposure to Ann Arbor’s harsh weather can lead to deterioration, turning a minor crack into a major source of water damage. Crumbling mortar and failing seals not only diminish your home’s appearance but can also compromise the entire roofing system it passes through. At New Roof, Inc., we specialize in chimney repairs with a roofer’s expert perspective, focusing on a permanent, watertight solution.

As a licensed builder since 1978, we understand that most “chimney leaks” don’t actually originate in the chimney itself. They start where the chimney meets the roof. When you need a definitive diagnosis, you’ll speak directly with Jeff, the owner, whose 40+ years of roofing expertise make him uniquely qualified to find and fix the true source of the problem. For an expert chimney assessment, call New Roof, Inc. at (734) 665-5555.

Why Most Chimney Leaks Start at the Roofline

Many homeowners call a mason to fix a chimney leak, only to have the problem return. This is because the most common point of failure isn’t the brick or mortar—it’s the flashing. Flashing is a system of sheet metal intricately woven into the shingles and sealed against the chimney base. When this seal fails due to age, storm damage, or improper installation, it creates a direct path for water into your attic and home. As master roofers, creating a flawless, permanent seal at this critical junction is our core specialty.

Our Comprehensive Chimney Repair Services in Ann Arbor

We provide a full range of services to restore the safety, function, and beauty of your chimney structure.

Chimney Flashing Repair and Replacement

This is the most critical service for preventing water intrusion. We remove old, failing flashing and install a new, multi-layered system that integrates perfectly with your residential roofing materials. Our expert installation ensures a durable, watertight seal that will last for decades.

Masonry Repair and Tuckpointing

Ann Arbor’s freeze-thaw cycles are brutal on masonry. Water seeps into small cracks, freezes, expands, and breaks the mortar apart. Our tuckpointing service involves carefully grinding out the decaying mortar and replacing it with a new, high-strength mixture. This restores the chimney’s structural integrity and protects the bricks from further damage.

Chimney Crown and Cap Repair

The chimney crown is the concrete slab at the top of your chimney that prevents water from entering the flue and eroding the masonry from the inside out. We repair cracks or completely rebuild failing crowns. We also install high-quality chimney caps to keep out rain, snow, animals, and debris.

An Integrated Approach to Exterior Integrity

A secure chimney is a key part of a healthy home envelope. Our expertise across all exterior services ensures every component works together.

• We understand that a chimney penetration on a flat roof requires different, but equally precise, sealing techniques compared to a sloped roof.
• Our team often performs chimney repairs as part of a larger water and storm damage repair project, ensuring all vulnerabilities are addressed.
• A secure chimney complements properly installed siding and windows, creating a complete barrier against the elements.
• Proper air sealing around the chimney in the attic is also essential for effective insulation and ventilation performance.

Our commitment to quality extends to all structures, including commercial roofing projects. You can see our full list of capabilities on our Ann Arbor services page and read our client reviews to learn more.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chimney Maintenance

What are the signs that my chimney needs repair?

Common warning signs include crumbling mortar joints, flaking or missing pieces of brick (spalling), white staining on the exterior (efflorescence), visible cracks in the top concrete crown, and any water stains on the ceiling or walls near your fireplace.

Should I hire a mason or a roofer for my chimney leak?

While a mason is the right choice for a complete rebuild, the vast majority of chimney leaks are caused by faulty flashing at the roofline—a roofer’s specialty. An experienced roofer like Jeff, who is also an expert licensed builder, can accurately diagnose the true source of the leak, saving you from paying for unnecessary masonry work when a flashing repair was all that was needed.

Why is chimney maintenance important?

Regular maintenance prevents small issues from becoming major, expensive problems. A sealed and stable chimney protects your home from water damage, prevents dangerous carbon monoxide from entering your home, and maintains the structural integrity of a very heavy part of your house. For more on chimney safety, you can consult resources from industry leaders like the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA).