Chimney Repair & Rebuilding Services

Why Your Chimney Needs Regular Attention

Your chimney does a lot more than just look nice on your roofline. It safely vents dangerous gases out of your home and protects your house from fire hazards. But chimneys take a beating from Iowa weather. Freeze-thaw cycles, wind-driven rain, and extreme temperature changes can all cause damage that you might not notice until it becomes a serious problem.

A damaged chimney is not just an eyesore. It can lead to water leaks, carbon monoxide exposure, and even structural failure. If your chimney is leaning, crumbling, or showing visible cracks, it is time to get it checked out by professionals who know what they are doing.

At DEM Des Moines Masonry, we have been repairing and rebuilding chimneys throughout Des Moines for years. We understand the unique challenges that local homes face, and we use proven techniques to make sure your chimney is safe, functional, and built to last.

Signs Your Chimney Needs Repair or Rebuilding

How do you know if your chimney needs professional attention? Here are the warning signs we see most often in Des Moines homes:

• •Cracked or crumbling mortar: When the mortar between your chimney bricks starts breaking down, water can get inside and cause serious damage.
• •Leaning or tilting: If your chimney is not perfectly vertical, that is a major red flag. It could mean foundation issues or structural failure.
• •Damaged chimney crown: The crown is the concrete top that seals your chimney. Cracks here let water pour straight down into your chimney system.
• •Missing or damaged flashing: Flashing seals the gap between your chimney and roof. When it fails, you get leaks that can damage your attic and ceilings.
• •Spalling bricks: When the face of the brick flakes off, it means water has gotten inside and frozen. This gets worse fast if you do not fix it.
• •White staining (efflorescence): Those white streaks are salt deposits left behind by water. They tell you moisture is working its way through your masonry.

If you spot any of these issues, do not put off calling us. Small problems become big expenses when you wait too long. We offer free inspections so you can find out exactly what is wrong and how much it will cost to fix.

Chimney Repair vs. Complete Rebuilding

Not every damaged chimney needs to be torn down and rebuilt. We will always recommend the most cost-effective solution that keeps you safe. Here is how we decide what your chimney needs.

When Repair Works

If the damage is limited to the outer layers, like deteriorating mortar joints or a few cracked bricks, repair is usually the way to go. We can repoint the mortar joints, replace damaged bricks, fix the chimney crown, or update the flashing. These targeted repairs can add decades to your chimney's life without the expense of a full rebuild.

When You Need a Rebuild

Sometimes the damage goes deeper. If your chimney is structurally unsound, leaning significantly, or has extensive interior damage to the flue liner, a partial or complete rebuild is the safest option. This is especially common in older Des Moines homes where chimneys have been exposed to decades of harsh weather.

A rebuild means taking the chimney down to a stable point and reconstructing it with new materials. We match your existing brick style and make sure everything meets current building codes. The result is a chimney that looks great and will last for generations.

Safety Always Comes First

We will never push you toward an expensive rebuild if repairs will do the job safely. But we also will not patch a dangerous chimney just to save you money in the short term. Our priority is keeping your family safe and giving you honest advice about what your chimney really needs.

What to Expect from Our Chimney Services

We have repaired and rebuilt chimneys all over Des Moines, from historic homes near the Capitol to newer neighborhoods in Johnston and Urbandale. Here is what our process looks like.

First, we do a complete inspection from top to bottom. We check the crown, flashing, mortar joints, bricks, and flue liner. We look for structural issues, water damage, and any safety concerns. Then we explain what we found in plain English, no confusing jargon.

If you need repairs, we will give you an upfront estimate and timeline. We source quality materials that match your existing chimney, and we do the work efficiently without cutting corners. Our crews are experienced with both modern and historic masonry, so we know how to handle whatever your home needs.

For rebuilds, we carefully dismantle the damaged sections, inspect the underlying structure, and rebuild using traditional techniques combined with modern materials where appropriate. We also handle brick repair for other parts of your home, so check out our brick repair and restoration services if you need work done beyond your chimney.

Frequently Asked Questions