JL Masonry & Construction logo
Chimney by JL Masonry in Cambridge, MA
Free Estimates MA HIC Registered Cambridge, MA

Cambridge's Trusted Chimney Specialists

Serving Mid-Cambridge, Harvard Square, and all of Cambridge, MA. MA HIC registered, insured, and built to last every Massachusetts winter.

5.0 · 47+ Google reviews
No deposit · No pressure
Free · No Obligation

Request a Free Estimate

Takes 60 seconds. We reply within one business day.

Loading form…

You can also reach us directly:

(617) 913-9845

contact@jlmasonryma.com

Prefer to call?(617) 913-9845
Recent Chimney Work

Real chimneys we've built around Cambridge

See all chimney work
Tall stacked-stone chimney during exterior installation
JL Masonry
Stacked-stone chimney
Custom natural stone chimney shaft with bluestone cap
JL Masonry
Stone chimney with bluestone cap
Mason rebuilding a stone chimney from scaffolding on a residential roof
JL Masonry
Chimney rebuild in progress
Chimney in Cambridge, MA

A chimney contractor that knows Cambridge

Cambridge is a community with its own character — and the masonry that frames a property here has to respect that. We build chimneys for homes throughout Mid-Cambridge and Harvard Square, with material choices and detailing that fit the local architecture. Among the densest historic masonry inventory in the country.

Choosing a chimney contractor in Cambridge means choosing someone who'll show up. We do. MA HIC registered and insured — and the same crew you meet at the estimate is the crew that builds the project.

Common chimney problems in Cambridge

  • Mortar joints are crumbling and bricks are loose
  • Chimney crown is cracked, allowing water into the structure
  • Flashing leaks at the roofline causing water damage inside the house
  • Brick is spalling (face popping off) from freeze-thaw damage — particularly common in Cambridge given charles river microclimate; salt damage from winter roads.
  • Chimney is leaning or shows visible structural failure

Materials we use

  • Matched salvaged or new brick to suit existing chimney era
  • Cast-in-place concrete crown or custom precast
  • Lead step and counter flashing (no rubber substitutes)
  • Type N or Type S mortar (matched to existing)
  • Stainless-steel chimney cap

What we inspect

  • Mortar joint depth and pointing technique (raked, struck, or weather-struck per period)
  • Crown thickness (minimum 2" with drip edge overhang)
  • Flashing layered properly (counter over step)
  • Flue liner condition (we coordinate Level 2 inspections)
  • Cap installed to prevent moisture and animals

How we approach a chimney project in Cambridge

  1. 1Discovery visit in Cambridge — we measure, photograph, and listen to what you want this chimney to do for the property.
  2. 2Design and material selection — samples brought to your home so the colors and textures match the federal-era brick character of your block.
  3. 3Schedule locked in writing — a real start date, a real end date, and the same crew on-site every day.
  4. 4Install by our own masons — no day-laborers, no subs we just met. Daily photos sent to you so you always know where the job stands.
  5. 5Written workmanship warranty handed over before we pull off the property — and we answer the phone after the job is done.

Chimney questions, answered

How do I know if my chimney needs repointing vs full rebuild?
If the brick itself is sound and only mortar joints are eroded, repointing is the right call. If brick is spalling, leaning, or significantly displaced, a partial or full rebuild is needed. We assess in person — no guessing.
Do you pull the permits?
Yes. We pull all required building permits, coordinate with the local building inspector, and provide certificates of completion.
How long does the chimney work last?
A proper rebuild with quality brick and mortar lasts 60–100+ years. Repointing extends life by 25+ years before the next service.

Ready to start your Cambridge chimney project?

Cambridge homeowners deserve masonry that lasts. A chimney leak today is a ceiling and wall repair tomorrow. Repointing before winter saves thousands in water damage by spring. Call (617) 913-9845 or request your free estimate online — we'll be at your property within 48 hours.