Chimneys are a hallmark of traditional architecture, but as heating systems evolve, many homeowners are rethinking their necessity. Whether you’re eyeing extra space by removing a chimney breast or preserving your property with expert repointing, it’s essential to understand the process, costs, and implications.
At Cornerstone Brickwork, we specialize in chimney removals, repointing, and weather struck pointing, offering tailored solutions that protect both the look and structure of your home.
🏡 Why Remove a Chimney Breast?
A chimney breast is the internal projection of the chimney stack, often taking up valuable floor space. Many modern homeowners choose to remove it to create open-plan layouts or gain extra square footage.
✅ Top reasons for chimney breast removal:
- Increase usable space: Chimney breast removal is specially beneficial in small rooms or kitchens.
- Modernize interiors: Achieve sleeker, minimalist aesthetics.
- Address structural issues: Old chimneys can deteriorate, leading to cracks or instability.
📝 The removal process at a glance:
- Structural assessment – Ensuring the wall’s load-bearing capacity is maintained.
- Planning permissions – Needed in listed buildings or conservation areas.
- Installation of support beams – Typically steel beams to hold the remaining structure.
- Demolition and debris removal – Careful dismantling and safe disposal.
- Making good – Plastering, painting, and finishing to blend seamlessly with your interiors.
💷 How Much Does Chimney Breast Removal Cost?
Costs vary based on the size, location, and complexity of the work. On average:
- Ground floor only: £1,500 – £2,000
- First floor removal: £1,600 – £2,200
- Full chimney removal (including stack): £3,000 – £4,000
➡️ Additional costs may include structural engineer reports, plastering, and skip hire for waste removal.
🏗️ Chimney Removal: Taking It All Down
Unlike breast removal, full chimney removal involves dismantling both the internal breast and the external stack. This is ideal when the chimney is damaged, redundant, or leaks are recurring despite repairs.
🏠 Key reasons for full chimney removal:
- Eliminate damp problems caused by aging masonry.
- Avoid costly maintenance of unused stacks.
- Prevent collapse in structurally compromised chimneys.
🔍 The removal steps:
- Erect scaffolding for roof access.
- Carefully dismantle the chimney stack brick by brick.
- Seal the roof opening with matching materials.
- Remove the internal breast as needed.
- Patch and finish walls, ceilings, and roofline.
Costs for complete removal typically fall between £3,000 – £4,500, depending on accessibility and property type.
🧱 What Is Chimney Repointing?
Over time, mortar between bricks wears down, allowing moisture to seep in. Chimney Repointing replaces this old mortar, strengthening the chimney and improving weather resistance.
🌟 Benefits of repointing:
- Prevents leaks and damp patches inside.
- Extends the life of your chimney.
- Restores the original look of aged brickwork.
🏁 Repointing process overview:
- Inspecting mortar joints for depth and integrity.
- Raking out damaged mortar to a safe depth.
- Applying fresh mortar in stages for best adhesion.
- Finishing with a chosen joint profile for protection and aesthetics.
The typical cost of repointing a chimney falls between £500 – £1,000, depending on size and accessibility.
🎯 Weather Struck Pointing: Extra Protection with Style
Weather struck pointing is a specialized technique where the mortar joint is sloped downward, helping rainwater drain away more effectively. This reduces water ingress and adds longevity to your masonry.
✨ Advantages of weather struck pointing:
- Superior weather resistance compared to flush pointing.
- Visually complements period homes and heritage properties.
- Low maintenance once completed.
At Cornerstone Brickwork, we use traditional methods combined with modern materials to ensure every repointing project stands the test of time—both functionally and visually.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need permission to remove a chimney breast?
You’ll need building regulations approval, and if the property is listed or in a conservation area, planning permission is also required.
Q2: Is it safe to remove a chimney breast myself?
No—this work affects structural integrity. Professional assessment and steel supports are necessary to prevent collapse.
Q3: How long does chimney repointing last?
A well-executed repointing job can last 30–50 years with proper maintenance.
Q4: What’s the difference between flush and weather struck pointing?
Flush pointing is level with the brick face; weather struck is angled to direct water away, offering better protection.
Q5: Can I just remove the chimney stack but leave the breast?
Yes, but it must be capped and supported appropriately to avoid future structural issues or water ingress.
🏅 Why Choose Cornerstone Brickwork?
With years of experience in chimney removals, repointing, and structural brickwork, we understand the balance between aesthetics, safety, and long-term durability. Whether it’s restoring a Victorian chimney with weather struck pointing or removing an outdated chimney breast for a contemporary renovation, we tailor every project to your home’s needs.
From initial consultation to the final finishing touches, Cornerstone Brickwork delivers craftsmanship you can trust—ensuring your property stays beautiful, safe, and structurally sound.
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