How to Replace Chimney Spalling Bricks
                      How to Repair Spalling Brick on Chimney
Chimneys tend to provide warmth while enhancing the house's aesthetics! However, they
sustain wear and strain with time, triggering the issue known as  Spalling Brick. It's the
most prevalent chimney concern plenty of homeowners experience during winter. you can
retain your chimney's former glory and functionality by following the below steps to repair
your chimney's spalling brick! Alternatively, if the issue is significant or you detect other
concerns, it's best to consult an expert for  chimney repair in Sacramento, as neglecting
your chimney woes can be perilous! Let's commence. 
Tools Needed
● Safety gear (gloves, safety glasses, dust mask)
● Hammer and chisel
● Masonry saw
● Wire brush
● Trowel
● Mortar mix
● Waterproofing sealer
● Water source and bucket
● Caulking gun
● Paintbrush
● Plastic sheeting (to protect the surrounding area)
Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing Brick on Chimney
• Safety First
First and foremost, safety takes precedence over anything! Thus, be sure to wear
appropriate  safety  equipment,  such  as  gloves,  safety  glasses,  and a  dust  mask.
During the repair procedure, it's vital to safeguard oneself from airborne debris and
dust particles. 
• Evaluate the Damage
After ensuring safety, examine your chimney meticulously to determine the severity
of  the  spalling  brick  damage.  Now,  detect  any  loose  or  cracked  bricks  and  any
fractures  or  holes  in  the  mortar.  This  assessment  will  assist  you in  determining
whether the repair is sufficient or needs professional assistance.
• Remove Damaged Bricks
Now, cautiously take off the damaged bricks using a hammer or chisel and tap the
mortar joint  to loosen and remove them. However,  be vigilant not to ravage the
nearby pristine-shaped bricks. 
• Clean the Area
Once you've removed the broken bricks, clean the area using a wire brush while
ascertaining  that  any  loose  debris,  dust,  and  old  mortar  have  been  completely
removed. This step is crucial  since a clean surface ensures sold and long-lasting
repair.
• Mix Mortar
Consider  following the  manufacturer's  directions while  prepping the mortar  mix.
While  mixing,  ensure  it  has  a  consistency  of  peanut  butter  and  the  mortar  is
adequate  to  perform  the  repair  in  one  go.  It's  because  matching  the  color  and
consistency might be tricky if you need to add more. 
• Apply Mortar
Apply a layer of mortar to the area to add new bricks with a trowel. Now, firmly
press the mortar into place, leaving a small gap to allow for the new bricks to fit in
perfectly. 
• Install New Bricks
After applying the mortar, insert the new brick into it, ensuring they are level and
horizontal with the other bricks. Now, fill the gaps between the bricks with mortar
and flatten them using a trowel. 
• Finish and Cure
Allow the mortar to cure for a few minutes after putting the new bricks. Then, using
a moist cloth, wipe away any excess mortar from the brick faces, helping you achieve
an  uncluttered  finish.  Allow  at  least  24  hours  for  the  mortar  to  dry  before
proceeding.
• Seal and Protect
Add a  waterproofing  sealant  to  the  repaired  area  to  avert  future  spalling  brick
difficulties! Coat the mended part and the surrounding bricks using a paintbrush or a
caulking gun to produce a moisture-resistant barrier. 
• Finishing and Clean Up
Remove plastic sheeting and clean the area around the chimney after the sealant is
dry. Vigilantly discard the debris and secure your tools. 
Final Thoughts
Fixing the spalling brick on your Sacramento chimney is a doable task that might save you
money on future repairs.  Following the preceding steps can help ensure your  chimney
functions optimally while looking aesthetically appealing. However, if you're dubious about
the repairing steps or damage is grave, it's prudent to enlist a professional to undertake the
task and prepare your chimney for the winter ahead. 
---Article Source---
https://www.articleted.com/article/694244/202096/How-to-Repair-Spalling-Brick-on-Chimney