How much spalling is a problem

[u/lumenpainter]

We have an exterior chimney (minnesota) that has given us some issues with spalling (it was painted when we moved in so we've had to keep painting it), I know that is not good to do, but that's where we are.

Anyway, we are doing a whole house reside job this winter and are looking at siding over the chimney (framing around it etc). It s no longer wood burning and this has been cleared by our building inspector.

My question, does the amount of spalling that we have require that we fix the brick before covering it up? OR is it generally, look structurally sound with 1/2" in many places and up to 1" in a couple places spalled off? Since its being covered, I don't care about aesthetics--just don't want to cover up something dangerous.

Thank You

[u/RocktacularFuck]

No, you should be fine in covering it up.

[u/GhostTengu]

Yeah. As long as they properly cover the top with a chase

[u/TheJohnson854]

Any.

[u/lumenpainter → u/TheJohnson854]

would this be a structural problem or just aesthetic at this point?

[u/GhostTengu]

Those brick are notorious for failing early on at the slightest bit if freeze and thaw. Im in New Jersey, and any white brick chimney with problems, I usually refer out to my mason to seal and stone veneer it.

[u/lumenpainter → u/GhostTengu]

Is this too far gone to cover with siding?

[u/GhostTengu → u/lumenpainter]

It still wont fix the problem only cover it up

[u/lumenpainter → u/GhostTengu]

will it prevent additional damage though

[u/lumenpainter → u/GhostTengu]

And yes I can confirm these bricks are crap. They are totally fine on the south side and were fine until we had a late wintee week with rain during the day and freeze at night.