Chimney
Chimney repointing and brick repair: what it costs in Massachusetts
Wide range: this job varies a lot. Itemize your quote for a better answer.
How this range is built
| Part of the job | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Parts and materials | $100 | $700 |
| Labor: 10 to 30 hours × $100 to $140 an hour | $1,000 | $4,200 |
| Fees: disposal, permits, supplies | $0 | $400 |
| Total, rounded | $1,100 | $5,300 |
The hourly rate is the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025 average pay for this trade in Boston, $39.07 an hour, times 2.6 to 3.6 to cover what a contractor bills (overhead, tools, insurance, profit). Materials are a band from basic to high-end. Full method.
Not a repair shop, estimates only. Typical range, estimate. Not a quote. Your home, materials and contractor change the number.
Replace crumbling mortar and fix loose bricks on a chimney to stop leaks and keep it stable.
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What is usually included
- Grind out old mortar
- Repoint
- Replace bad bricks
- Waterproof seal
- Cleanup
What moves the price
- Chimney height and condition
- Scaffolding
- Brick matching
- Rebuild vs repoint
Questions to ask before you say yes
- Is scaffolding included?
- Will you match brick and mortar color?
- Do you waterproof?
- Is rebuild needed?
Can you do it yourself?
Not a DIY at height; mortar work and scaffolding need skill and safety gear.
Common questions
When to repoint?
When mortar is crumbling, gaps show, or you can push a key into the joints. Waiting lets water in and can loosen bricks.
How long does it last?
Good work lasts 25 years or more. Weather, sun and freeze-thaw cycles in New England are what wear mortar down.
Why waterproof?
Brick absorbs water, which can freeze and crack it. A breathable sealer helps shed rain and snow without trapping moisture inside.
How much does chimney repointing and brick repair cost in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $1,100 to $5,300. It is an estimate built from labor wages and material prices, not a quote.
Typical range in 10 metro areas
Only the labor rate changes between cities. Same parts, same hours.
| Area | Typical range, estimate |
|---|---|
| Boston area, Massachusetts | $1,100 to $5,300 |
| New York City area | $1,100 to $5,300 |
| Los Angeles area, California | $1,100 to $5,200 |
| Chicago area, Illinois | $1,150 to $5,500 |
| Houston area, Texas | $750 to $3,800 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth area, Texas | $750 to $3,650 |
| Phoenix area, Arizona | $850 to $4,250 |
| Atlanta area, Georgia | $750 to $3,800 |
| Miami area, Florida | $800 to $3,950 |
| Seattle area, Washington | $1,150 to $5,500 |