If a few bricks on my chimney are starting to separate slightly, is that already a structural issue?
Answer
It’s moving in that direction. Once separation begins, especially near the top of a chimney, it typically continues getting worse. We usually rebuild that section before loose material starts falling or surrounding bricks become unstable. A lot of homeowners wait too long because everything still appears “mostly fine” from the ground, but chimney damage tends to progress quickly once moisture keeps entering the structure. The chimney takes heavy weather exposure year after year, so even small gaps can widen during Michigan winters. If caught early enough, sometimes only the upper portion needs rebuilding instead of the entire chimney, which can save a substantial amount of money.
