New Chimney Construction
Chimney Building in Richmond, VA
Whether you're building a new home, adding a fireplace to an existing one, or replacing a chimney that's beyond repair, Richmond Chimneys creates chimneys that are built to last generations.
Built Right from the Ground Up
A chimney is one of the most demanding structures on your home. It must withstand extreme heat from within, freeze-thaw cycles from without, wind loads, rain, and decades of thermal expansion and contraction — all while maintaining a tight, safe flue that properly vents combustion gases away from your living space. Building a chimney that meets all of those demands requires real masonry expertise, quality materials, and meticulous attention to detail.
At Richmond Chimneys, new chimney construction is one of our core specialties. We've seen hundreds of chimneys across the Richmond, VA area — from simple single-flue stacks serving a wood stove to elaborate multi-flue chimneys with custom stone surrounds and decorative corbeling. We bring the same level of craftsmanship to every project, regardless of size.
Every chimney we build starts with a thorough assessment of your site, your appliance, and your goals. We design the chimney to the correct dimensions for your specific heating system, can pull all required permits, and build. When we're done, you'll have a chimney that performs flawlessly, looks beautiful, and will serve your home for decades to come.
What We Build
Types of Chimneys We Build
Full Masonry Chimneys
A full masonry chimney is built entirely of brick, block, or stone from the foundation up. It's the most durable and longest-lasting chimney type, and it adds significant architectural character and value to your home. We build full masonry chimneys for wood-burning fireplaces, wood stoves, gas appliances, and multi-appliance systems. Every masonry chimney we build includes a properly sized clay tile or stainless steel flue liner, a correctly sloped crown, and a quality cap.
- Brick, block, or natural stone construction
- Clay tile or stainless steel flue liner
- Custom crown and cap
- Decorative corbeling and finishing options
- Designed for single or multiple flues
Prefabricated Chimney Systems
Prefabricated (factory-built) chimney systems use engineered metal components to create a complete chimney system at a lower cost and faster installation time than full masonry construction. They're an excellent choice for new construction, additions, and situations where a full masonry chimney isn't practical. We install prefabricated systems from leading manufacturers, enclose them in a framed and finished chase, and top them with a proper cap and spark arrestor.
- Engineered metal flue components
- Framed and finished exterior chase
- Compatible with wood-burning and gas appliances
- Faster installation than full masonry
- Lower cost while maintaining safety and performance
Chimney Rebuilds
When a chimney has deteriorated beyond the point where repairs make economic sense, a full or partial rebuild is the right solution. We carefully remove the damaged masonry, assess the underlying structure, and rebuild the chimney to current code standards using quality materials that match the original as closely as possible. A properly executed rebuild gives you a chimney that looks original and performs like new.
- Above-roofline or full-height rebuilds
- Material matching to preserve home's character
- New flue liner included
- All work permitted and inspected
- Structural assessment before work begins
Materials & Craftsmanship
The materials we use matter as much as the craftsmanship. We source quality firebrick, hard-burned face brick, and natural stone from trusted suppliers, and we use only properly formulated masonry mortars — not general-purpose construction mortars that can't withstand the thermal demands of a chimney environment.
Every chimney we build includes a properly sized and installed flue liner. The flue liner is the heart of the chimney system — it contains combustion gases, protects the surrounding masonry from heat and corrosive byproducts, and ensures proper draft. We can install clay tile liners in new masonry construction and stainless steel liner systems where clay tile isn't appropriate.
We may finish every chimney with a properly formed concrete crown — sloped to shed water away from the flue opening, with a drip edge that keeps water off the masonry below. A quality chimney cap completes the system, keeping rain, animals, and debris out of the flue while allowing gases to escape freely.
From First Call to Final Inspection
Our Construction Process
Site Assessment & Design
We visit your property to assess the site, evaluate structural requirements, and discuss your goals. We design the chimney to the correct dimensions for your specific appliance and flue requirements, and provide a detailed, itemized estimate.
Permits & Planning
We can pull all required building permits and coordinate with local inspectors. We handle the paperwork so you don't have to, and we make sure every aspect of the project is planned and approved before work begins.
Foundation & Base
A chimney is only as good as its foundation. We assess the existing foundation or build a new one sized to support the chimney's weight, ensuring long-term stability and preventing settling that can crack the masonry above.
Masonry Construction
We lay each course of brick or stone with precision, maintaining consistent joint widths, proper bond patterns, and correct plumb and level throughout. We install the flue liner as we build, ensuring it's properly centered and supported at every level.
Crown, Cap & Flashing
We form and pour a properly sloped concrete crown, install a quality stainless steel cap, and seal the chimney-to-roof junction with correctly installed step and counter flashing. These details are critical for keeping water out of your chimney and your home.
Final Inspection & Cleanup
We schedule and can submit for all required building inspections, clean up the work site completely, and walk you through the finished chimney. We don't consider the job done until the inspector signs off and you're completely satisfied.
Free Site Assessment
Request a Free Chimney Building Estimate
Ready to build? Call us for a free site assessment and estimate. We'll evaluate your project, walk you through your options, and give you a clear, honest quote. Serving Richmond, VA and all surrounding areas.