Expert Chimney Services for Long Island Homeowners

Your chimney stands above your roofline, fully exposed to nor'easters, salt air, and freeze-thaw cycles. Over time, this deteriorates mortar, cracks bricks, and compromises your flue — creating safety hazards and water damage pathways.

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Chimney Rebuild

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Complete Re-Roof

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Siding Replacement

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Long Island Exterior Co. provides comprehensive chimney repair, rebuilding, and maintenance services across Nassau County and Suffolk County. From minor tuckpointing to full chimney rebuilds, cap installations, liner replacements, and waterproofing treatments — our in-house masonry crew handles it all. No subcontractors, no middlemen.

Call (516) 518-3353 for a free chimney inspection, or fill out the form to schedule yours.

Chimney Services We Provide

We offer a full range of chimney services to address every issue Long Island homeowners face — from routine maintenance to emergency repairs and complete reconstruction.

Chimney Repair and Tuckpointing

Tuckpointing (also called repointing) is the process of removing deteriorated mortar from between the bricks and replacing it with fresh, properly mixed mortar. This is the most common chimney repair on Long Island and is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and water resistance of the masonry.

On Long Island, mortar joints are subjected to dozens of freeze-thaw cycles per winter. Water enters the mortar, freezes, expands, and cracks the joint. Over successive seasons, this erosion accelerates until mortar is recessed, crumbling, or missing entirely. Left unaddressed, water penetrates deeper into the chimney structure, damaging the internal flue, saturating the surrounding framing, and eventually causing structural instability.

Our masonry crew uses Type N and Type S mortar formulations matched to the existing masonry for proper bond strength, color consistency, and long-term durability. We address not just surface joints but inspect and repair joints at the chimney's most vulnerable points — the crown, shoulders, and the intersection with the roofline.

Chimney Rebuilding

When deterioration has progressed beyond the point where tuckpointing is effective — meaning multiple courses of brick are spalling, the chimney is leaning, or the internal structure is compromised — a partial or full rebuild is required.

Partial rebuild (above roofline): The most common scenario. The chimney is dismantled from above the roofline down to sound masonry, then rebuilt with new bricks and mortar to match the existing structure. Cost ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 depending on height and complexity.
Full rebuild: Involves dismantling the chimney from the firebox or foundation up and constructing a completely new chimney. This is necessary when the chimney has sustained structural failure, major settling, or extensive interior damage. Cost ranges from $10,000 to $25,000+.

All chimney rebuilds include a new stainless steel liner, chimney cap, and proper flashing integration with your existing roof.

Chimney Cap Installation

A chimney cap is a fitted metal cover that sits over the top of your flue opening. Despite its simplicity, a chimney cap is one of the most important protective components of your chimney system. It serves multiple critical functions:

Rain prevention: Stops rain and snow from entering the flue, which prevents interior moisture damage, rusted dampers, and deteriorated flue tiles
Animal exclusion: Prevents birds, raccoons, squirrels, and other animals from nesting in your flue — a common problem on Long Island
Spark arrest: The mesh screen catches embers, reducing fire risk to your roof and surrounding area
Downdraft prevention: Helps prevent wind-driven downdrafts that push smoke and fumes back into your home

We install stainless steel and copper chimney caps with lifetime manufacturer warranties. Cap installation is a straightforward project — typically $200 to $800 depending on flue size and configuration — that delivers outsized protection.

Chimney Liner Installation

The flue liner is the interior lining of your chimney that contains combustion gases and protects the surrounding masonry and home structure from heat and corrosive byproducts. Many older Long Island homes have no liner at all, or have original clay tile liners that have cracked and deteriorated over decades of use and thermal cycling.

We install UL-listed stainless steel chimney liners that are rated for all fuel types (wood, gas, oil) and carry a lifetime warranty. The installation process involves inserting a flexible or rigid stainless steel tube down the length of the flue and connecting it to the appliance at the bottom and the chimney cap at the top. Insulation wrap is applied around the liner to improve draft efficiency and reduce condensation.

A new liner is required whenever the existing liner is damaged, when converting from oil to gas heat, or when a chimney is rebuilt. Cost ranges from $2,500 to $6,000 depending on flue height and diameter.

Chimney Flashing Repair and Replacement

Chimney flashing is the weatherproofing system at the junction where your chimney penetrates the roof. It consists of step flashing (metal pieces woven into the roof shingles along the sides), counter-flashing (metal embedded in the chimney mortar joints that overlaps the step flashing), and a cricket or saddle (a small peaked structure behind the chimney that diverts water around it).

Failed chimney flashing is one of the single most common causes of roof leaks on Long Island homes. The symptoms are often misattributed to the roof itself, leading homeowners to spend money on roof repairs that do not solve the problem. Signs of failed flashing include water stains on ceilings near the chimney, wet drywall or peeling paint in adjacent rooms, and visible rust, gaps, or lifted metal around the chimney base.

We use lead-coated copper or heavy-gauge aluminum flashing, properly integrated into both the masonry and the roofing system. If you are also replacing your roof, chimney flashing replacement is included as a standard part of our roof replacement scope.

Chimney Crown Repair

The chimney crown is the cement cap at the very top of the chimney that seals the space between the flue liner and the outer masonry. A properly constructed crown slopes away from the flue to shed water. Over time, Long Island's freeze-thaw cycles crack the crown, allowing water to penetrate directly into the chimney structure.

We repair minor crown cracks with flexible, waterproof crown coating compounds. For crowns with severe cracking or structural failure, we remove the damaged crown and pour a new one using a proper concrete mix with a drip edge overhang. Cost ranges from $300 to $1,500 depending on chimney size and damage extent.

Chimney Waterproofing

After repointing, repair, or as a preventive measure, we apply a breathable water repellent (such as ChimneySaver by SaverSystems) to the exterior masonry. This treatment penetrates the brick surface and prevents water absorption while allowing interior moisture vapor to escape — preventing the trapped-moisture damage that non-breathable sealers can cause.

Waterproofing is especially valuable for Long Island chimneys exposed to salt air (South Shore, barrier islands) and chimneys on the windward side of the house that take the brunt of nor'easters. Treatment costs $250 to $600 and lasts 5 to 10 years.

Chimney Inspection

We perform Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 chimney inspections as defined by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). A Level 1 inspection is a visual assessment of the readily accessible portions of the chimney and is appropriate for annual maintenance. A Level 2 inspection (which includes video scanning of the interior flue) is required when selling a home, after a chimney fire, or after a major weather event. We recommend annual inspections for every Long Island homeowner.

Chimney Demolition and Removal

Some Long Island homeowners choose to remove a chimney entirely — often because it is no longer in use (the home has been converted to forced-air heating), it poses a structural risk, or they want to reclaim interior space. We handle full chimney demolition, including removal of the masonry structure from the roof down through the interior, patching the roof where the chimney was located, and finishing the interior ceiling and wall surfaces. Typical cost is $4,000 to $10,000 depending on chimney size and interior finishing requirements.

Long Island-Specific Chimney Challenges

Freeze-Thaw Cycle Damage

Long Island experiences 50 to 80 freeze-thaw cycles per winter — among the highest in the northeast. Each cycle introduces water into the masonry, freezes it (expanding approximately 9% in volume), thaws, and repeats. This is the primary mechanism of chimney deterioration on Long Island and is why chimneys here require more frequent maintenance than in milder climates. Annual inspections catch freeze-thaw damage early, when tuckpointing is all that is needed — before the damage compounds into a rebuild situation.

Salt Air Corrosion

Homes within a few miles of the Long Island coastline face accelerated chimney deterioration from salt-laden air. Salt crystals absorb moisture and accelerate the chemical breakdown of mortar and the spalling of brick faces. For coastal homes, we specify marine-grade mortar formulations with enhanced salt resistance and recommend waterproofing as a standard part of any repair project.

Aging Housing Stock

The majority of Long Island's housing stock was built between the 1940s and 1970s. Many of these homes have chimneys that are 50 to 80 years old and have never been relined or received comprehensive masonry maintenance. Common issues include:

No flue liner (common in pre-1950 construction) — a fire and carbon monoxide hazard
Cracked or displaced clay tile liners from decades of thermal cycling
Mortar erosion through 50+ years of freeze-thaw exposure
Inadequate or deteriorated flashing (often tar-based rather than metal)
Missing or damaged chimney caps
Crowns made of brick mortar rather than proper concrete — they fail quickly

Oil-to-Gas Conversions

Many Long Island homeowners have converted or are converting from oil heat to natural gas. This conversion changes the flue requirements significantly. Gas produces lower-temperature exhaust with higher moisture content, which can cause condensation and acidic deterioration inside an oversized or unlined chimney. A properly sized stainless steel liner is required for safe and efficient gas appliance venting. We handle the chimney component of oil-to-gas conversions, ensuring your flue is properly sized and lined for the new heating system.

Chimney Service Cost Guide for Long Island

Service	Typical Cost Range	Timeline
Chimney Cap Installation	$200 – $800	1–2 hours
Waterproofing	$250 – $600	Half day
Crown Repair	$300 – $1,500	Half day
Flashing Repair	$400 – $1,500	Half day to 1 day
Tuckpointing / Repointing	$500 – $2,500	1–2 days
Liner Installation	$2,500 – $6,000	1 day
Partial Rebuild (Above Roof)	$3,000 – $10,000	2–4 days
Chimney Demolition	$4,000 – $10,000	2–5 days
Full Chimney Rebuild	$10,000 – $25,000+	1–2 weeks

* Prices are estimates for the Long Island market as of 2026. Final pricing depends on chimney height, accessibility, material selection, and extent of damage. Free inspections and estimates provided.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chimney Services on Long Island

How much does chimney repair cost on Long Island?

Chimney repair costs on Long Island vary widely depending on the scope of work. Minor tuckpointing or repointing runs $500 to $2,500. A chimney cap installation costs $200 to $800. Flashing repair is typically $400 to $1,500. A full chimney rebuild above the roofline ranges from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on height and material. Liner installation averages $2,500 to $6,000. We provide free inspections with detailed, itemized estimates.

How do I know if my chimney needs repair?

Common signs your chimney needs professional attention include: white staining on the exterior bricks (efflorescence, which indicates moisture penetration), crumbling or missing mortar joints, cracked or spalling bricks, a leaning or tilting chimney, rust on the damper or firebox, water stains on the ceiling or walls near the chimney, a damaged or missing chimney cap, and deteriorated flashing where the chimney meets the roof. If you notice any of these signs, call us for a free inspection before the damage worsens.

Do I need a chimney liner on Long Island?

If your Long Island home was built before 1950, there is a high probability your chimney does not have a liner — or has a deteriorated clay tile liner that no longer provides adequate protection. A chimney liner is essential for safety: it contains combustion gases and heat within the flue, protects the surrounding masonry and house framing from heat transfer, and improves draft efficiency. Modern stainless steel liners are the standard and typically cost $2,500 to $6,000 installed, depending on flue height and configuration.

How often should a chimney be inspected on Long Island?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) recommends annual chimney inspections, even if you do not use your fireplace regularly. On Long Island, where freeze-thaw cycles, nor'easters, and salt air continuously stress masonry, annual inspections are especially important. Many chimney problems — cracked flue tiles, deteriorating mortar joints, blocked flues from animal nests — develop silently and can become safety hazards or lead to costly water damage if not caught early.

Can a chimney be repaired in winter on Long Island?

Limited chimney repairs can be performed in Long Island winters. Cap installation, liner installation, and some interior repairs are not weather-dependent. However, exterior masonry work (tuckpointing, brick replacement, crown repair) requires temperatures consistently above 40°F for proper mortar curing. We schedule major masonry work during appropriate weather windows and can perform emergency repairs year-round to stop active leaks or safety hazards.

Should I repair or rebuild my chimney?

The decision between repair and rebuild depends on the extent of deterioration. If the damage is limited to the mortar joints and surface bricks, tuckpointing and spot brick replacement are sufficient. If the chimney shows structural shifting, extensive spalling through multiple courses, or a compromised internal structure, a partial or full rebuild is the safer and more cost-effective long-term solution. We always recommend the least invasive option that fully addresses the problem.

Does Long Island Exterior Co. handle chimney flashing?

Yes, chimney flashing is one of our core specialties. Chimney flashing is the weatherproofing system where your chimney meets the roof — it is one of the most common sources of roof leaks on Long Island homes. We install step flashing, counter-flashing, and cricket/saddle flashings using lead-coated copper or aluminum, integrated into both the roofing system and the masonry. If you are getting a new roof, we always replace chimney flashing as part of the project.

What is chimney waterproofing and do I need it?

Chimney waterproofing involves applying a breathable water repellent to the exterior masonry that prevents water absorption while allowing moisture vapor to escape from inside the chimney. On Long Island, where chimneys endure constant rain, salt air, and freeze-thaw cycles, waterproofing can significantly extend the life of your masonry. We recommend it after any tuckpointing or repair work, and as preventive maintenance on chimneys in good condition. The treatment typically costs $250 to $600 and lasts 5 to 10 years.

Related Exterior Services

Chimney work often coincides with roof and siding projects — especially when addressing water damage, flashing failures, or full exterior renovations.

Roof Replacement

GAF Master Elite certified. Asphalt, metal, slate, flat roofing, and storm damage repair for Long Island homes. Chimney flashing included.

Siding Replacement

Vinyl, James Hardie fiber cement, LP SmartSide, and cedar siding for Long Island homes. Boost curb appeal and energy efficiency.

Learn More About Chimney Care on Long Island

Visit our blog for expert guides on protecting your Long Island home:

Why Long Island Homeowners Choose Us

Licensed, insured, and certified — with a decade of protecting Long Island homes.

GAF Master Elite® Certified

Only 1% of roofers nationwide earn this distinction — better materials, stronger warranties, superior workmanship.

Local Long Island Expertise

We understand nor'easters, salt air, ice dams, and the building codes across every Nassau and Suffolk County town.

No Subcontractors — Ever

Every project is completed by our trained, in-house crew. Your home is never handed off to strangers.

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Lifetime Warranty Options

GAF Golden Pledge® lifetime coverage — the industry's strongest manufacturer warranty, available on qualifying installations.

Chimney Service Areas

Long Island Exterior Co. provides chimney repair, rebuilding, and maintenance services across all of Nassau County and Suffolk County.

Nassau County

Hempstead, Levittown, Garden City, Freeport, Valley Stream, Massapequa, Rockville Centre, Long Beach, Mineola, Great Neck, and all Nassau County communities.

Suffolk County

Babylon, Huntington, Smithtown, Islip, Commack, Patchogue, Riverhead, Hampton Bays, Southampton, East Hampton, Montauk, and all Suffolk County communities.

Protect Your Chimney Before It Becomes a Problem

Call us today at (516) 518-3353 or fill out the form above to schedule your free chimney inspection. Early detection saves thousands.

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