When homeowners around Ann Arbor start noticing crumbling mortar, spalling bricks, or a chimney that just doesn’t look as steady as it once did, the next question is simple: who can we trust to fix it the right way? Around Washtenaw County, our team at Clean Sweeps of Michigan has become the go-to choice for chimney masonry repairs that hold up as well as possible through Michigan’s freeze–thaw cycles, snow loads, and gusty spring storms. We’ve spent decades restoring the chimneys that keep Ann Arbor’s older neighborhoods charming, whether it’s Burns Park, Water Hill, the Old West Side, or the 1970s builds through Pittsfield Township. Book your appointment today.
How Do We Handle Chimneys That Are Weathered by Michigan’s Freeze/Thaw Cycles?
Ann Arbor winters can be tough on masonry. Moisture seeps into tiny cracks, freezes, expands, and suddenly a small issue becomes a big one. Our company focuses heavily on prevention and long-term stabilization in this climate.
- We repoint mortar using mixes that flex with seasonal temperature swings
- We replace spalling bricks with units matched for durability and proper absorption
- We apply vapor-permeable waterproofing that slows deterioration without trapping moisture
- We assess underlying structural issues before repairs begin, not after
By the time we wrap up, homeowners can feel more confident that their chimney will handle the next winter in Washtenaw County without breaking down faster than it should.
What Makes Our Team a Strong Choice for Structural Chimney Repairs?
A chimney isn’t just decorative…it’s a load-bearing structure. We’ve seen situations where decayed mortar joints or shifting bricks made homeowners wonder, “Could this thing really collapse in a season?” In extreme cases, yes, Michigan’s windstorms and temperature swings can push a failing chimney to the brink. That’s why we take structural integrity seriously.
- We evaluate leaning or bowing chimneys before they become hazardous
- We rebuild failing stacks from the crown down when patchwork won’t be enough
- We install new crowns that prevent water intrusion from starting the cycle all over again
- We stabilize chimneys affected by nearby construction, roof changes, or settling soils
Once work is complete, homeowners aren’t left guessing – they understand what caused the problem and what steps will keep it from returning.
How Do We Approach Hidden Interior Decay & Chimney Flue Damage?
Some of the most dangerous chimney problems in Ann Arbor homes are the ones homeowners can’t see. Old, unlined chimneys in early-century homes near Kerrytown or downtown may show strong exterior bricks while hiding serious interior decay. We look deeper.
- We use specialized cameras to detect microscopic flue cracks that aren’t visible to the naked eye
- We inspect for gaps caused by seismic tremors or settling foundations
- We identify moisture intrusion that can weaken interior walls long before symptoms appear externally
- We recommend relining options that improve draft and safety for wood, pellet, or gas appliances
Once we walk clients through video footage and our findings, they understand exactly why interior repairs matter just as much as exterior ones.
How Do We Prepare Chimneys After Severe Weather?
Ann Arbor gets its fair share of high wind events, heavy rains, and the occasional flooding. Homeowners often ask whether chimneys can withstand tornado-adjacent winds or what to do before using the fireplace after a major storm. Our goal is to guide them through it safely.
- We inspect for loosened mortar that storms often worsen
- We check caps and crowns for displacement caused by strong gusts
- We ensure no water entered the flue that could damage liners if a fire is lit too soon
- We remove storm-driven debris, leaves, or early-season pollen blockages
Once everything is inspected, repaired, or cleared, homeowners have a clearer path to safely using their chimney again—even after rough weather.
How Do We Manage Draft & Performance Problems During Chimney Masonry Repairs?
Masonry damage often affects more than stability…. In fact, it can change how the chimney drafts. In Ann Arbor’s neighborhoods with mature trees or new additions popping up next door, airflow can shift over time. We account for that while we work.
- We measure draft performance before and after masonry repairs
- We confirm that nearby construction or roofline changes didn’t disrupt airflow
- We adjust caps, flues, or liner sizing if needed
- We explain how different fuels (wood, pellets, gas, etc.) change soot, creosote, and draft behavior
When everything is aligned, homeowners enjoy a fireplace that burns more cleanly and performs better.
Why Do Ann Arbor Homeowners Trust Our Company for Chimney Masonry Work?
At the end of the day, chimney masonry repair isn’t something homeowners want to gamble on. Ann Arbor’s climate, historic housing stock, and variable soils mean you need a team that understands the specific challenges here. We show up with decades of local experience, a track record across countless neighborhoods, and a commitment to repairing each chimney as thoroughly as possible.
Book Your Appointment Today
We restore chimneys so they look better, last longer, and work the way they should, backed by local knowledge and a team that treats every home like it’s our own. If you’re seeing cracks, loose bricks, or moisture problems, Clean Sweeps of Michigan is here to help you get ahead of the issue before winter or storms make it worse. If you’re in Ann Arbor or somewhere nearby, book your next chimney masonry repair with us today.