Chimney Repair Services Cambridgeshire
Professional chimney repairs across Cambridge, Huntingdon, Ely, and surrounding areas. From crumbling mortar and leaking flashing to dangerous leaning stacks, we fix chimney problems properly.
Damaged chimney causing leaks or safety concerns? — Free inspection, honest advice, clear quote. No hidden costs, no pressure.
Chimney repointing and rebuilding
Lead flashing replacement
Chimney pot and cowl fitting
Stack repairs and removal
Fully insured with 15-year guarantee
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"Joe didn't rush anything. He showed me photos as he went so I could see the quality for myself."
—David C., Cambridge
Common Chimney Problems We Fix
Chimneys are exposed to the worst of the weather. Over time, mortar deteriorates, flashing fails, and brickwork cracks. We diagnose and repair all chimney problems across Cambridgeshire
Crumbling or Missing Mortar (Repointing)
Frost, rain, and wind erode the mortar between chimney bricks over time. Once mortar starts to crumble, water gets in and accelerates the damage. Repointing restores the joints and prevents further deterioration.
Leaking Chimney Flashing
Where the chimney meets the roof is one of the most common leak points on any property. Failed lead flashing allows rainwater to run down the chimney stack and into your home. We replace chimney flashing with properly dressed lead to create a lasting watertight seal.
Leaning or Unstable Chimney Stack
A chimney stack that's visibly leaning is a safety concern. Years of exposure to wind, rain, and frost can weaken the structure. We assess the severity and either stabilise or rebuild the stack to make it safe.
Damaged or Missing Chimney Pots
Cracked or dislodged chimney pots allow rain directly into the flue. We replace broken pots and fit cowls to protect against water ingress and bird nesting.
Spalling Brickwork
When moisture gets into bricks and freezes, the face of the brick flakes away. This is common on exposed chimney stacks. We replace damaged bricks and repoint to prevent further spalling.
Defective Chimney Caps and Cowls
Without a proper cap or cowl, rainwater enters the flue and causes damp inside. Bird nests can also block flues, creating a carbon monoxide risk. We fit appropriate caps and cowls for your chimney type.
Lead Work Failures
Step flashings, back gutters, and apron flashings around chimneys deteriorate over time. Poorly fitted or aged lead is one of the most common causes of chimney leaks. We install and repair all types of chimney lead work
Damp and Staining Around the Chimney Breast
Damp patches or brown staining on the wall or ceiling near your chimney usually indicate a flashing or repointing problem above. We trace the source from the roof and fix it properly.
How It Works
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Step 1: Get in Touch
Call us on 01223 420691 or request a callback. We'll respond quickly and arrange a convenient time to inspect your chimney.
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Step 2: Free Chimney Inspection
We inspect the chimney from the roof, identify the problem, and explain what needs doing in plain English. No jargon, no scare tactics.
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Step 3: Clear Quote, Repair, and Guarantee
You receive a clear, itemised quotation. Once approved, we complete the work to a high standard and guarantee it for 15 years
Why Choose Us for Chimney Repairs
Experienced Chimney Specialists
Chimneys require specific knowledge — mortar mixes, lead dressing techniques, and understanding how different chimney types behave. With 25+ years in the trade, we've repaired hundreds of chimneys across Cambridgeshire and know what works.
Proper Lead Work
Lead flashing is the critical waterproofing around your chimney. We use code 4 and code 5 lead sheet, properly dressed and fitted into the brickwork. No shortcuts, no mastic-only bodge jobs.
Honest Assessment
Not every chimney problem needs a full rebuild. We'll tell you if repointing and new flashing will solve the issue rather than recommending unnecessary work. Joe inspects every chimney himself and gives you straight advice.
Fully Insured for Working at Height
Chimney repairs involve working at the highest point of your roof. We carry £2M public liability insurance and follow all health and safety requirements. Your property and our team are protected.
Clear, Fixed Pricing
You'll know exactly what the repair costs before we start. Our quotes are itemised and the final price matches what we agreed. No surprises, no extras added on.
15-Year Guarantee
All chimney repair work is guaranteed for 15 years. If anything we've done develops a fault within that period, we come back and put it right at no cost.
What Customers Say
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"Joe and his team turned up exactly when promised and stayed until the job was finished properly."
— Paul R., St Neots
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"Months later and the roof is still perfect. Joe clearly fixes the cause, not just the symptom."
— Peter K., Newmarket
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"When something unexpected came up, Joe explained it first and let us decide."
— Ian L., Huntingdon
Project Gallery
Need a chimney repair?
Call 01223 420691 or request a free quote.
Chimney Repair Costs
We believe in transparent pricing. Every chimney is different, so we provide a free inspection and detailed written quote tailored to your specific chimney before any work begins.
Chimney Repointing: The cost of repointing depends on the size of your chimney stack, ease of access, and the extent of deterioration. Whether it's a standard single stack or a larger double chimney, we'll assess the condition and provide a clear quote.
Lead Flashing Replacement:
We replace old or failed chimney flashing with new code 4 or code 5 lead, pointed neatly into the brickwork. Pricing depends on whether you need step and apron flashing only, or a full back gutter replacement as well.
Chimney Pot and Cowl Replacement:
If your chimney pot is cracked, loose, or missing, we'll remove the old pot, bed a new one in mortar, and fit a cowl or rain cap if required. Cost depends on the number of pots and the type of cowl needed.
Chimney Stack Rebuild:
Whether you need a partial rebuild of the top courses or a full stack rebuild, the cost will depend on chimney size, height, access, and whether scaffolding is required.
Scaffolding:
Many chimney repairs require scaffolding for safe access. We include scaffolding costs in our quotation so there are no hidden extras.
These are the guides only. We provide a free inspection and detailed written quote for your specific chimney before any work begins.
Types of Chimney Repairs We Carry Out
Chimney Repointing
Repointing involves raking out the old, deteriorated mortar from between the bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. This is one of the most common chimney repairs. We use the correct mortar mix for your chimney type — lime mortar for older period properties and cement-based mortar for modern chimneys. Getting the mix wrong can cause further damage, particularly on Victorian and Georgian properties where the bricks are softer.
Chimney Rebuilding
When mortar deterioration has gone too far, or the stack has become structurally unsound, a partial or full rebuild is necessary. We carefully dismantle the damaged sections, rebuild using matching bricks where possible, and repoint with the appropriate mortar. For partial rebuilds, we typically take down and rebuild the top courses. Full rebuilds involve taking the stack down to roof level and building back up.
Lead Flashing Replacement
We replace all types of chimney flashing including step flashings (where the chimney meets sloping tiles), back gutters (behind the chimney where it meets the roof slope above), apron flashings (the front face where chimney meets tiles), and soakers (hidden beneath tiles alongside the chimney). All our flashing work uses proper lead sheet, cut and dressed on site to fit your chimney exactly. We don't use lead substitute or rely on sealant alone.
Chimney Pot and Cowl Installation
We remove and replace cracked or damaged chimney pots, bed new pots in mortar, and fit cowls or rain caps where appropriate. If you have an unused flue, we can fit a ventilated cap to keep rain out while allowing airflow to prevent damp.
Chimney Weatherproofing
For chimneys that suffer from persistent damp penetration through the brickwork, we can apply a breathable weatherproofing treatment. This allows moisture to escape from within the brickwork while preventing rain from soaking in. This is particularly effective on exposed chimney stacks.
Chimney Stack Removal
If your chimney is no longer in use and is causing ongoing problems, removing it down to roof level can be a practical solution. We remove the stack, weatherproof the remaining structure, and tile over. The chimney breast inside can be retained or removed by a builder.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my chimney needs repointing?
Look at the mortar joints between the bricks. If the mortar is crumbling, cracking, missing in places, or you can scrape it out easily with a finger, repointing is needed. Damp patches on the chimney breast inside your home can also indicate failed mortar joints allowing water in.
How long does chimney repointing last?
Properly done with the correct mortar mix, chimney repointing should last 20–30 years. Using the wrong mortar (too hard for the brick type) can cause it to fail much sooner and damage the bricks. We always match the mortar to your chimney.
What causes chimney flashing to fail?
Lead flashing has a long lifespan, but over time it can crack due to thermal expansion and contraction, pull away from the brickwork if poorly pointed, or be damaged by storms. Older chimneys may have cement fillets instead of proper lead, which crack and fail much sooner.
Can you repair my chimney without scaffolding?
Some minor repairs can be done from a roof ladder, but most chimney work requires scaffolding for safe and proper access. We assess this during the inspection and include any scaffolding costs in your quote — it's never an unexpected extra.
Is a leaning chimney dangerous?
It can be. A chimney that's visibly leaning may have structural issues that could worsen, particularly in high winds or storms. If you notice your chimney leaning, it's worth getting it inspected sooner rather than later. In severe cases, we can arrange emergency stabilisation.
Do you use lime mortar for older properties?
Yes. Period properties (Victorian, Georgian, Edwardian) have softer bricks that need lime mortar, not modern cement mortar. Using cement on these chimneys traps moisture and causes the bricks to spall and crack. We always use the appropriate mortar for the building age and type.
How much does it cost to replace chimney flashing?
Chimney flashing replacement typically depends on chimney size and the type of flashing needed. A standard single chimney with step and apron flashing is on the lower end. Larger chimneys requiring back gutters and multiple flashings cost more. We provide exact pricing after inspection.
Can you match my existing bricks if rebuilding?
We source matching bricks where possible. For common brick types, we usually have good access to matches. For unusual or very old bricks, we may need to source reclaimed bricks. We'll discuss this during the survey and show you options before proceeding.
What's the difference between a chimney cap and a cowl?
A chimney cap (or rain cap) sits over the pot opening to prevent rain entering the flue while still allowing ventilation. A cowl is similar but often includes features to prevent downdraught or bird entry. Both protect your chimney and home. We recommend the right option based on whether your flue is in use, disused, or venting an appliance.
Will chimney repairs stop damp on my chimney breast?
In most cases, yes. Damp on the chimney breast is usually caused by either failed flashing, deteriorated mortar joints, or a lack of chimney cap allowing rain into the flue. We identify which is causing the damp and fix it. Once the source is stopped, the damp dries out over a few weeks.
Do I need building regulations approval for chimney work?
Standard chimney repairs like repointing, flashing, and pot replacement don't require building regulations approval. Full chimney removal may need consideration depending on whether the chimney is structural. We advise on this during the survey.
How long do chimney repairs take?
Most chimney repairs are completed in one to two days. A full repoint of a standard stack takes a day. Flashing replacement is usually a day. Partial rebuilds may take two to three days depending on size. We'll confirm the expected timeline in your quotation.
Areas We Cover
Based in Cambridge, we provide roof repair services across Cambridgeshire and surrounding areas. As local roofers, we can often attend the same day for emergency repairs.
And all surrounding villages
Not sure if we cover your area? Give us a call – we're happy to help.
Need CHIMNEY RepairS in Cambridgeshire?
Don't wait for a small problem to become expensive damage. Our local team of experienced roofers provides fast, honest repairs across Cambridge, Huntingdon, Ely, and surrounding areas.
What happens when you call:
- If we don't answer, we'll call you back within 30 minutes during business hours
- Arrange a free roof inspection at a time that suits you
- Provide a clear written quote with no hidden costs
- Complete the repair quickly with our 15-year guarantee
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