Large crack is loft chimney stack

[MarkH1992]

Hey all,

As title describes I have large cracks running through our loft chimney breast. This chimney has been used by the previous owner every winter. I’m guessing the expansion / contraction of the fire has caused this to happen as there are no cracks on the other breast which is not used.

What is concerning on closer inspection is that there seems to be a hole where soot has been escaping through the render of the chimney breast. I have attached images for reference.

Do you think I could get away with removing old render, replace any missing mortar on the brickwork and slap up some new render to sort the problem?

Cheers
Mark

 

[Higgy28]

If you think it's possible that is leaking and you intend to use the fire you need to get it professionally checked, and possibly have a liner fitted

 

[Don777]

take the old render off inspect the bricks patch with strong mortar holes if any even repoint deep holes and new render on top job done