TOPIC: Chimney defect

Sean, we thought about that, but the pad is on earth. I think that there is erosion under the pad, so the jacking would eventually fail.

Michael, you probably are correct about the erosion, since it looks like the chimney is in the low spot of the grade.
With the planting it is very difficult to determine how much settlement may have occurred.

Good luck

Tim

That's a problem Tim, but an engineer can fix it.  I have seen it repaired two ways, and sometimes both:

1.  The pressure pumping underneath to lift it back up and re-stabilize the foundation.
2.  Wrapping a belt around the chimney and bolting it to or through the roof to the other side of the house.

That chimney is very heavy and in such a small square foot area that if the foundation isn't good it sinks.  I would suggest to your neighbor not to wait.  A really wet winter or spring can compromise it rapidly.

After it is stabilized you can suggest that a sweep look at the interior to make sure the flue has not come apart.  It probably has already though.

He has called a structural engineer to take a look. He is going to call me and let me know the date and time so I can meet the engineer. I think it will be a great educational opportunity.

I had the wrong name on my last post!  It wasn't Tim, but Michael!  Sorry...

Going and hearing what the engineer has to say would be a great opportunity!  I wouldn't miss it if I was  you.

Yeah I would like to hear what the engineer has to say too!!!