Older Minneapolis and St. Paul homes often have masonry chimneys with decades of freeze-thaw wear and sometimes outdated or unlined flues. Annual inspections, tuckpointing, waterproofing, and adding a liner where needed keep them safe.
Why older chimneys need extra care
Original mortar has weathered for decades, crowns and flashing may be original, and some old flues are unlined or have cracked clay tile that needs attention.
Unlined or cracked flues
Older homes sometimes have unlined chimneys or deteriorated clay liners, which are fire and carbon monoxide risks. A camera inspection confirms whether relining is needed.
A maintenance plan
Yearly inspection and sweep, tuckpointing as joints fail, crown and flashing repair, breathable waterproofing, and relining where required. Catching issues early protects a historic chimney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are old chimneys unsafe?
Not inherently, but they need inspection and often updates like relining.
What is most common in old homes?
Failing mortar, cracked crowns, and aging clay liners.
Can you preserve historic brick?
Yes, we color-match mortar and source matching brick.
Need a chimney sweep, inspection, or repair?
Serving Minneapolis and 80 metro communities.