Water finds wood, and the wood around your chimney takes more weather than almost any other part of your home. Once rot sets in, it spreads quietly behind paint and trim until soft spots turn into structural problems. Our exterior wood replacement service removes the damaged material, fixes what let the water in, and installs new wood built to handle the elements.
What is included
- Full inspection of the chimney chase, trim, and surrounding siding to map the extent of the rot
- Removal of all rotted or water-damaged boards, trim, and sheathing
- Identification and correction of the moisture source, such as failed flashing or a worn chase cover
- Installation of new exterior-grade wood cut and fitted to match the existing structure
- Sealing, caulking, and priming of new material so it sheds water from day one
- Cleanup and haul-away of all old wood and debris
Signs you might need this
- Soft, spongy, or crumbling wood when you press on chimney trim or siding
- Peeling, bubbling, or flaking paint on the chimney chase
- Dark stains, streaks, or visible mold on wood near the chimney
- Gaps, warping, or boards pulling away from the chimney structure
- Carpenter ants, termites, or other pests drawn to damp wood
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if the wood on my chimney is rotted or just weathered?
Weathered wood looks gray and dry but stays firm. Rotted wood feels soft when pressed, may crumble at the edges, and often shows dark staining or bubbling paint. If a screwdriver sinks into the board with light pressure, the wood is compromised. A quick inspection can tell you exactly how far the damage goes.
Can you just paint over rotted wood instead of replacing it?
No, and we would not recommend anyone do it. Paint hides rot but does not stop it. The decay keeps spreading underneath and can reach framing, sheathing, and the chimney chase itself. Replacing the damaged wood and fixing the moisture source is the only repair that actually lasts.
What causes the wood around a chimney to rot in the first place?
Almost always water. Failed flashing, a cracked or rusted chase cover, missing caulk, or a damaged chimney cap lets moisture run down into the wood. That is why we fix the source of the leak as part of the job. New wood installed over an active leak will rot again.
