Closing or Removing Unused Chimneys

Many homeowners in Rochester, Buffalo, and surrounding Northwest New York townships are choosing modern heating appliances with a venting system that no longer needs a chimney, so what do you do? You have this gaping hole in your house made of brick that requires annual maintenance even though you are no longer using it!

Chimney Removal or Closing Can Save You Money

Ignoring chimney maintenance isn’t an option. That’s because it will just continue to deteriorate. Bricks and mortar will decay, leading to cracking, flaking, and spalling brick. As the stack continues its decline, you will have water leaks sprouting throughout the house! This could lead to wood rot in the wood-framed chase, attic, roof deck, and roof.

In addition, the moisture and humidity in an unused or neglected flue are breeding grounds for mold, mildew, and pests. Eventually, the chimney will succumb to structural issues resulting in a partial or complete collapse that can cause extensive damage to your house.

How to Close Off a Chimney Permanently

Felgemacher Masonry + Chimney can close off your flue or remove the chimney down to the roofline. Then, we will restore the area where the chimney once stood. With locations in Buffalo and Rochester, NY, our Certified Chimney Professionals provide prompt, reliable, and efficient chimney services in communities throughout the Genesee Valley and Northwest New York.

Closing the Flue (Temporarily or Permanently)

Sometimes, customers prefer to keep their chimney but want to close the flue. This can be an excellent option if you decide to install a new masonry or manufactured wood-burning or gas fireplace that will require a chimney in the future. Or, you plan to sell the house in the future and want to make the home more marketable to prospective buyers with the option of unblocking the flue.

Also, customers in older homes can benefit from temporarily closing the flue during the warmer months to improve energy efficiency and reduce cooling costs. Then unblock the flue when cooler weather arrives to enjoy their gas or wood-burning fireplace. Whether you want a temporary or permanent solution, the certified pros at Felgemacher Masonry and Chimney will inspect your chimney and recommend the option for your northwest New York home.