12/03/2025
This was a failing chimney in Redding, CT we discovered by coincidence. I was referred to this client by another contractor for some driveway repairs. When I was done taking measurements for a quote I asked the homeowner if he’d like me to look at anything else while I was there. He had just purchased the home and asked if I could inspect the chimney for him. We walked around the back of the house and from 30’ away I knew he had a big problem. This chimney was very dangerous. Another contractor had installed a faux stone veneer over plywood and roofing felt. A few of the lowest stones had already come off and a couple of stones, not pictured, had come down on the other side. His home inspection completed before this purchase caught none of this!
Once we demo’d the facade we discovered, unsurprisingly, there was major water and ant damage to the structure as well as water reaching the homes framing. After replacing all damaged framing, plywood and treating for ants we applied a waterproofing sealer and installed proper flashing which was missing completely. Then after installing wire lath, we coated the chimney with 2 coats of stucco. In the spring, we will come back to apply a masonry stain for color and a clear penetrating sealer to protect it for many years to come.
