Quote:
Originally Posted by SAMIAM
Keep in mind that stucco is only there for looks and when it comes apart it doesn't look good,for sure,but doesn't compromise the integrity of the chimney.The firebrick and outside shell should be fine,so there's nothing wrong with a "home repair' job to save a little cash.
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While you are correct that the stucco is a face bonded adhesive that serves little purpose other than looks, a deteriation of this material can cause structural damage to the chimney.
When stucco loses its grip on the outside face of the brick below, it creates a pocket. If water has the ability to reach that pocket it will allow the water to seep into the lime mortar and defects within the bricks face. If this occurs during a freeze thaw cycle in the spring and fall the water that is absorbed by the mortar will freeze and create a seperation in the bond with the brick. Without an external material on the brick the water will not hold in place and has a harder time causing this damage. Stucco was not originally designed or intended for use in cold weather climates for this exact reason.
The possiblility of this damage occuring is greater than you think. A chimney inspection by a chimney sweep will also yeild you answers that would point you in the right direction without the expense of going all out on the repair. You can then perform the repair yourself it that is what you are looking to do.
But remember the material you are having to repair did not just get damaged for no reason, not repairing the actual issue will not fix the problem and all the time in the world spent facelifting the material will be in vein. It WILL cost more eventually and may cause considerable damage to other areas of the home as the water pockets and chases become wider and allow more and more water through.
This is not a, you have to use a contractor statement, most repairs around the home can be handled by an armchair handyman, or someone that just likes to tinker. Just take a few minutes while performing the repair and really look at how it could have happened in the first place and fix that while you are at it.