Chimneys Up in Smoke

We have been focusing on preparing for the roof replacement.  We plan to have the entire roofing "torn-off" and replaced.  Good time to inspect the chimneys!

Our rowhouse has 3 brick chimneys - two in the original house for fireplaces and a one in the rear addition that was likely used for a kitchen stove. Each of these chimneys penetrated the roof, 2 of which were woven into the party wall shared between our house and the neighbors house.  Upon further inspection, we found that all 3 brick chimneys were turning to dust from the inside out.  Below is an example of deteriorated brick from inside one of the chimneys.

Each of the 3 chimneys were failing right at the roof/attic line where the hot humid interior air would rise and meet the cold external temperature, then freeze, and spawl the brick.  In the original budget we accounted for the these chimneys to be simply sealed up and abandoned because the new heating system and fireplace would not utilize these chases.

Based on their condition, we have elected to remove the chimneys - creating a cleaner roof, with reduced flashing locations, to minimize potential leaks.

We should also note that all the chimneys along our party wall / fire separation will have to have the 8" brick wall rebuilt to the height of the existing parapet. This will ensure the proper fire separation between our house and the neighbors.

Below is a string of picts - Maura taking down the back chimney!

Click here for more pictures.