Chimney Repair
in Minneapolis
& Saint Paul Region
Minneapolis is located in one of the coldest states of the country.
You really can’t afford to not maintain your heating systems.
Call Us!
Why Chimney Damage Should Never Be Ignored
A damaged chimney can quickly turn into a major structural issue for homeowners. Leaking chimneys and flashing failures often allow water to enter the roofline and walls, causing hidden structural damage.
Cracked crowns, spalling brick, and deteriorating mortar joints are clear signs that moisture has already begun breaking down the masonry system. Left untreated, these problems worsen with Minnesota’s freeze–thaw cycles — leading to extensive damage and more costly repairs.
Professional chimney repair addresses the source of the problem and restores the structural integrity and safety of your home.
Certified Chimney Masonry Specialists
When your chimney needs repair, you want experienced masonry professionals who understand both building code and chimney performance.
Dvorak Masonry is fully licensed and holds multiple masonry and chimney restoration certifications. Our team stays current with modern repair techniques and proven restoration methods to ensure durable, code-compliant repairs.
We believe chimney repairs should only be performed by qualified masonry specialists who understand chimney structure, ventilation physics, and proper material application.
Soft Lime Brick Chimneys Covered With Stucco
In many cases, brick chimneys that have been covered with stucco have already exceeded their useful life expectancy. When the underlying brick deteriorates, surface repairs are often temporary.
For severely deteriorated stucco-covered chimneys, a complete rebuild is frequently the most reliable long-term solution. We provide honest evaluations and recommend the most structurally sound option based on condition — not guesswork.
Expert Chimney Repair & Replacement Services in Minneapolis, MN
Complete Chimney Repair & Rebuilding Services
We provide a full range of chimney repair services, including:
- Brick Chimney Repair
- Partial Chimney Rebuilds
- Full Chimney Replacement
- Flue Top Damper Installation
- Roofline Rebuilds
- Tuckpointing and Mortar Restoration
- Chimney Liner Replacement
- Crown Repair and Replacement
- Flashing Repair
Whether your chimney needs minor restoration or a complete rebuild, we provide detailed written estimates outlining all recommended options.
Our estimates include photo documentation and clear descriptions of materials and procedures so you understand exactly what work is being performed.
Real Project Example
On a recent project combining NY Bluestone and Chilton stone, we:
- Removed a failing concrete cap
- Rebuilt the top stone layers
- Installed a new stone cap
- Repointed masonry to the roofline
- Sealed the flashing perimeter
Our goal on every project is structural durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic integrity.
Experience & Certifications Matter
Chimney Repair Projects
We have invested extensively in advanced masonry education and chimney restoration training.
Certifications include:
- Master Cement Finisher
- Master of Masonry (Minneapolis Registry #M127)
- Ahrens School of Masonry Restoration & Chimney Repair
- Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA)
When it comes to chimney repair, experience and technical knowledge directly impact long-term performance.
Attention to Detail Makes the Difference
The small details matter in masonry restoration. For example, we use mortar color-matching techniques to ensure repaired areas blend seamlessly with existing brickwork.
Quality repairs are not just about fixing damage — they are about restoring structural performance while preserving the appearance of your home.
Chimney Damage
Chimneys can develop cracks and other damage because of many factors with weather being an enormous factor here in the Minneapolis area, over time bricks strain, and mortar joints show wear, time itself also wears on masonry. Our technicians can reverse time and fix all sort of chimney damage. We can replace an eroded throat damper or seal a cracked crown. We also offer annual chimney inspections that will ensure your chimney stays in its best possible condition.
Chimney Deterioration
Masonry is highly durable, but it wears down with constant exposure to weather. Masonry joints can deteriorate from cracking to eroding. Bricks have their own life expectancy. Even prefabricated chimney systems will deteriorate with time. We offer a specialty tuckpointing service just for these cases to renew those deteriorated mortar joints. This can extend the life of your chimney substantially.
Lining / Relining
A properly functioning lining is the most important aspect of your chimney. The liner keeps the high heat away from your home and your home safe from fire hazards. The lining is also what keeps chimney gasses from entering your home. We can help you with any situation regarding the lining of your chimney with a certified lining installed by the most certified professionals.
Prevent Water Leaks
- We inspect the flashing around your chimney to make sure it’s code compliant. If it’s not, we strip down all remnants of the old flashing down to the roofing underlayment and then do a proper “build-back” with a complete, three-part system that is guaranteed not to leak.
- We put a drip ledge on your chimney cap so that water doesn’t run straight down the side.
Increased Protection Against Chimney Fires
- We always use fire-resistant refractory mortar when installing clay tile flue liners.
- We isolate chimney flues from the cap so that they have room to expand without creating cracks that could lead to chimney fires.
Extend The Life Of Your Chimney:
- We build your chimney cap out of specially modified concrete. This makes our caps far superior to the concrete chimney caps that are typically installed.
- As a result of our continuing education in the latest concrete techniques, we also use a special additive to further strengthen our concrete caps.
Should we repair or replace?
In the instance of the photo. The current homeowner was stuck with a chimney that was “repaired” by the previous owner. The new chimney was replaced on top of a base that was structurally compromised.
Why is smoke coming in my house?
We explore and answer the primary reason that smoke is entering this home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes the most chimney damage in the Minneapolis metro area?
The primary cause is water intrusion combined with severe freeze-thaw cycles in Minnesota winters, which cause bricks to swell and mortar to fail on chimneys across Minneapolis. Regular inspections and timely repairs keep small problems from turning into a costly rebuild.
Why should I hire a CSIA-certified chimney professional?
A CSIA-certified expert has specialized training in chimney physics, ensuring your repair is safe, functional, and compliant with local building code, so your home and family are protected.
What is a chimney cap, and why does mine need replacement?
A chimney cap (or crown) protects the flue from rain and snow. We install superior, modified concrete caps that provide a long-lasting seal against water-damaged mortar. Replacing a cracked cap is one of the most affordable ways to prevent larger chimney repairs.
Can you repair a leaning chimney in Saint Paul?
Yes. A leaning chimney is often a sign of advanced structural failure due to moisture. We evaluate whether targeted repair or complete chimney replacement is the most cost-effective solution and explain every option clearly in your written estimate.
Do you provide flashing repair services during a chimney rebuild?
Yes. We install a professional three-part flashing system to ensure a watertight seal between your chimney and roof, preventing water damage to your ceilings, walls, and attic.
What are the signs of "swollen" bricks in a chimney?
When water enters a brick and freezes, it expands, causing the brick to look swollen or distorted. This is a structural warning sign, and addressing it early keeps repair costs down.
How often does the CSIA recommend chimney inspections?
The CSIA recommends annual inspections to identify masonry weaknesses before they become dangerous or expensive.
What is a master mason's role in chimney restoration?
Our Master Masons oversee complex projects to ensure every brick and mortar application meets the highest standards of craftsmanship and durability, so your chimney is built to last.
Do you offer chimney repair for historic commercial buildings in Minneapolis?
Yes. We specialize in historic chimney restoration for commercial and institutional buildings, using era-appropriate materials that maintain architectural character while meeting modern structural integrity and building code standards — protecting both heritage and long-term asset value.
Can I get a detailed bid for my chimney project?
We provide transparent, detailed bids (often 6 to 7 pages) with photos and a clear breakdown of the proposed masonry repair, so you know exactly what work is being performed and why.