When it comes to chimney repair in Sun Prairie, homeowners know how quickly Michigan’s shifting seasons can wear down brick, mortar, and flashing. At Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace, we’ve spent years helping local families keep their chimneys standing strong through harsh winters, high winds, and heavy rain. Our team understands that your fireplace isn’t just for warmth… It’s part of what makes your home feel safe, cozy, and complete. For chimney repair services near you, reach out.

Could Freeze/Thaw Weathering Damage Your Chimney This Winter?

When water seeps into brick or mortar and freezes, it expands, creating cracks that worsen with each cycle. In Michigan, those temperature swings can do real damage fast. Here’s how we can combat it.

  • Waterproofing: Applying a breathable waterproof sealant helps repel moisture while allowing your chimney to “breathe,” slowing down the freeze/thaw decay process.

  • Crown Sealing: A cracked or deteriorating crown lets water in from above. Sealing the crown keeps rain and melting snow from seeping into your chimney’s core.

  • Tuckpointing: Replacing crumbling or missing mortar restores your chimney’s structural integrity and prevents water infiltration through weak joints.

  • Chimney Cap Installation: A properly fitted cap keeps rain, snow, and debris from entering your flue – one of the simplest ways to protect your chimney year-round.

We always tell homeowners: small cracks in fall can become major repairs by spring. Staying ahead of moisture damage is one of the smartest ways to extend your chimney’s lifespan.

original infographic shows a step-by-step visual explanation titled “How do freeze/thaw cycles damage a chimney?” on a blue and white background. The first panel shows water droplets seeping into a red brick chimney with the text “Water seeps into brick or mortar.” The next panel shows a snowflake above the chimney with cracks forming, labeled “Water freezes and expands, creating cracks.” The third panel displays wavy blue lines above the cracked chimney with the text “Water melts, allows more water to enter the system.” The final panel has a circular arrow around the chimney, labeled “The cycle continues multiple times a season.” The layout uses simple red, blue, and gray graphics with bold blue text on a white background.

How Do Chimneys Hold Up During High Winds and Storms?

In areas like Sun Prairie, intense storms can test a chimney’s structural integrity. High winds can loosen bricks, dislodge flashing, or even tilt the stack itself. Our repair specialists inspect every layer, inside and out, to identify vulnerabilities before they turn into hazards.

  • Repointing and rebuilding damaged mortar joints

  • Reinforcing crowns and caps to prevent water entry

  • Securing flashing where roofs meet chimneys

  • Checking for leaning or shifting after major storms

We’ve seen how one windy night can undo years of stability. That’s why we approach every repair with a mix of experience and precision. When storms hit, you want your chimney to stand firm.

Are Old or Unlined Chimneys More at Risk?

Many historic homes in the Sun Prairie area were built with unlined chimneys that look sturdy on the outside but hide interior deterioration. Without a liner, combustion gases and heat can eat away at the masonry over time.

  • Stainless steel relining for long-term protection

  • HeatShield resurfacing to seal cracks from the inside

  • Internal camera inspections to reveal hidden decay

  • Masonry relining for older brick stacks

A strong exterior doesn’t always mean a sound interior. Our advanced inspections let us spot those invisible risks and repair them before they compromise safety.

How Fast Can Crumbling Mortar Lead to Bigger Problems?

It’s easy to overlook minor mortar flaking or small gaps between bricks, but left untreated, they can quickly undermine the entire structure. Wind-driven rain and shifting temperatures accelerate that breakdown.

  • Chimney repointing to stabilize loose joints

  • Full rebuilds when structural integrity is lost

  • Foundation and flashing assessments for shifting chimneys

  • Preventive maintenance to reduce future cracking

We often remind customers that a chimney doesn’t collapse overnight…it weakens season by season. Regular inspections and timely repairs make all the difference.

How Do We Help Sun Prairie Homeowners Protect Their Chimneys Year-Round?

Our team combines local knowledge with proven repair techniques tailored for Michigan’s unpredictable climate. We don’t just patch cracks; we identify the root cause, whether that’s moisture infiltration, settling foundations, or years of heat exposure.

  • Certified chimney technicians with decades of experience

  • Comprehensive inspection reports with photos and recommendations

  • Honest pricing and clear communication from start to finish

  • Preventive maintenance programs to help you stay ahead of costly repairs

At Hansen & Sons Chimney & Fireplace, we take pride in protecting the homes that make up our community. Every repair we do is built to stand up to Michigan’s weather, one brick and one joint at a time.

Schedule Your Chimney Repair Today

If your chimney is showing signs of cracking, leaning, or water damage, or if it simply hasn’t been inspected in a while, let’s take a closer look. We’ll help you keep your fireplace safer, your home drier, and your chimney ready for the next Sun Prairie winter. Book your next chimney repair toady.