The average price to point a chimney is approximately £750. This cost typically covers the labor and materials needed to repair and replace deteriorating mortar joints on a standard chimney stack.
Pointing, also commonly known as repointing, is a crucial maintenance task that involves removing old, decaying mortar from the joints between bricks and replacing it with fresh mortar. This process is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your chimney, preventing water penetration, and extending its lifespan.
Understanding Chimney Repointing Costs
The cost of repointing can vary depending on the specific area of work and the scope of the project. Here's a general overview of typical repointing costs in the UK:
| Repointing Task | Unit | Average UK Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Repointing a chimney | Per chimney | £750 |
| Repointing a Victorian terraced property | Per property | £3,700 |
| Repointing a roof | Full roof | £1,250 |
| Repointing a patio | Per m² | £15 |
These figures provide a guideline for various repointing projects, from specific structures like chimneys to larger areas like entire properties or patios.
Factors Influencing Chimney Repointing Costs
While £750 is an average, several factors can influence the final price of pointing a chimney:
- Chimney Size and Height: Larger or taller chimneys will naturally require more materials and labor, increasing the overall cost. Difficult-to-access chimneys may also necessitate more complex scaffolding setups, adding to expenses.
- Condition of Existing Mortar: If the existing mortar is severely deteriorated or requires extensive grinding and removal, the labor time will increase.
- Accessibility: Chimneys located on steep roofs or in hard-to-reach areas can make the job more challenging and time-consuming, potentially leading to higher labor costs for specialized equipment or safety measures.
- Type of Mortar: While standard mortar is typically used, matching historical mortar types for period properties or using specialized mixes (e.g., lime mortar) can slightly increase material costs.
- Geographic Location: Prices for building work can vary across different regions of the UK due to differences in labor rates and operational overheads.
- Additional Repairs: Often, chimney repointing reveals other issues, such as cracked bricks, damaged lead flashing, or problems with the chimney pot. Any additional repairs needed will add to the total project cost.
It's always advisable to obtain multiple quotes from qualified and experienced professionals to get an accurate estimate for your specific chimney repointing project. For more details on repointing costs, you can consult resources like Checkatrade's cost guide.
