Chimneys designed using brick chimney construction, are by nature heavy and bulky compared to lighter alternative systems such as insulated metal pipes and Prefabricated chimneys. When they are built along side an exterior bearing wall, small brick ties are laid in the brick joints every 8 to 12 inches, then attached to the side of the wall using nails or screws, preventing the chimney from swaying and loosening, posing a risk of the entire chimney falling over. Mason Contractors sometimes either don’t install them, or rain water from the roof or chimney flashing gets behind the chimney, which sometimes freezes and pry’s the chimney away from the wall and also rusts these brick ties. Wind then rocks the chimney to and fro which further separates the chimney. Chimney Straps also known as Chimney Braces are installed to secure and refasten the chimney back to the wall.
