How Chimney Repairs and Repointing Can Protect Your Home

Chimneys are often overlooked when it comes to roofing maintenance, but they play a vital role in your home’s structure and safety. From keeping your fireplace functional to helping ventilate your property, chimneys are more than decorative features. In Ireland, where chimneys are exposed to strong winds, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures, wear and tear is inevitable over time.


Repointing and chimney repairs are essential for maintaining the integrity of your home. Without regular upkeep, a damaged chimney can lead to internal leaks, loose bricks, structural weakness, and even health risks due to poor ventilation.


One of the first signs that your chimney needs attention is the presence of water marks or damp patches near your fireplace or in your attic. This can be caused by cracked mortar joints or worn-out flashing, both of which allow water to seep in. If left untreated, the moisture can rot timber supports, damage plaster, and create a breeding ground for mould.


Repointing is a process that involves removing and replacing the old mortar between the bricks or stonework of your chimney. Over time, this mortar crumbles due to exposure to the elements, which weakens the structure and creates gaps for water to enter. A well-executed repointing job will restore the chimney’s strength and improve its resistance to weather.


Chimney cowls, pots, and lead flashing are also key elements to inspect. A missing or broken cowl can let in rain, birds, or debris, while faulty flashing can cause leaks around the base of the chimney. These issues may seem small at first but can escalate quickly if ignored.


At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we offer comprehensive chimney repair services that include repointing, flashing replacement, lead work, cowl fitting, and even full chimney stack rebuilds where necessary. Our goal is to keep your chimney functioning safely and looking its best.


If you’ve noticed crumbling brickwork, loose pots, dampness around your fireplace, or debris falling into the hearth, it’s time to have your chimney inspected. Catching these problems early can save you from much larger repairs in future—and help preserve the structural integrity of your entire roofline.

  • How often should chimneys be repointed?

    Typically every 25–30 years, depending on exposure and condition. However, regular inspections can identify problems earlier.

  • Can I use my fireplace if my chimney is damaged?

    It’s best not to. Cracks or blockages in the chimney can cause smoke to enter the home or create a fire hazard.

  • What’s the cost of chimney repointing in Ireland?

    Costs vary depending on the size and condition of the chimney. We provide free inspections and quotes.

  • Do you repair chimney flashing too?

    Yes, we offer full chimney flashing replacement and repairs as part of our service.

Roof Painting and Protective Coatings: Boosting Lifespan and Curb Appeal

7 April 2025
When people think of roof care, they usually focus on repairs or replacements. But there’s another important service that can extend the life of your roof while also improving the look of your home—roof painting and protective coatings. Especially in Ireland, where roofs take a beating from rain, wind, and UV rays, roof coatings can make a real difference. Roof painting isn’t just about appearance. While a freshly painted roof does improve kerb appeal, the real value lies in the protection it provides. A high-quality roof coating can seal porous surfaces, reduce the growth of moss and algae, and provide a waterproof barrier that prevents water ingress. This is especially beneficial for older concrete tile roofs, which become more porous over time. As water is absorbed, it can lead to frost damage, cracking, and eventual leaks. A breathable coating helps shed rainwater and protects against freeze-thaw cycles. Reflective roof coatings also help reduce heat absorption. While this is more of a concern in warmer countries, in parts of Ireland where summer temperatures can still rise, it offers added energy efficiency—especially for converted attics or upper rooms. The process usually begins with a full roof clean to remove moss, algae, and dirt. This is followed by a thorough inspection to identify any tiles that need replacing or areas that require resealing. Once prepared, the coating is applied—either by brush, roller, or spray—depending on the material and layout of your roof. There are several types of protective coatings available, including acrylic-based, silicone, and polymer formulations. Some include anti-fungal properties to help prevent regrowth of moss and algae, while others focus on durability and waterproofing. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we offer roof painting and coating services using premium-grade materials. Whether you want to refresh the appearance of your home, protect an ageing roof, or prevent future issues, we tailor the coating system to suit your roof type and condition. Roof painting is not a DIY job. The process requires safety precautions, access equipment, and technical knowledge to ensure proper adhesion and full coverage. With our expertise, you’ll get a long-lasting finish that enhances both performance and appearance.

Fascia and Soffit Repairs: Why They Matter More Than You Think

7 April 2025
Fascia and soffits aren’t just decorative trim along the roofline—they play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage, pests, and poor ventilation. Despite their importance, these elements are often neglected until obvious signs of damage appear. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we regularly carry out fascia and soffit repairs across Ireland, and we’ve seen first-hand how crucial this part of the roofline is. Let’s start with the basics. The fascia is the long, straight board that runs along the edge of your roof. It supports the bottom row of tiles and holds the guttering in place. The soffit is the board underneath the fascia, running horizontally from the edge of the roof to the wall. Together, they form a protective barrier that keeps moisture out and allows air to circulate through the roof space. When fascia or soffits are damaged—whether by water, rot, age, or pests—it compromises the entire roofline system. If the fascia board weakens, your gutters can sag or detach, causing water to pour onto walls and foundations. If the soffits are cracked or poorly ventilated, air can’t circulate properly in the attic, which leads to dampness and mould. In Ireland’s damp climate, these problems are common. Wooden fascia boards are particularly vulnerable to rot if gutters overflow or water penetrates the joints. Modern uPVC alternatives are more durable, but they’re still susceptible to cracks or impact damage over time. Another issue we often see is pest intrusion. Birds, insects, and even rodents can find their way into attic spaces through broken soffits or poorly sealed gaps. Once inside, they can damage insulation, wiring, and wooden supports. The good news is that timely fascia and soffit repairs can prevent all of this. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we offer full roofline inspections and repairs. Whether your boards need resealing, repainting, or complete replacement, we ensure your home remains protected and well-ventilated. If you've noticed peeling paint, damp around the roof edges, sagging gutters, or animals nesting in the eaves, it’s time to book an inspection. Small repairs now can save you major structural problems later.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay That Minor Roof Leak Repair

7 April 2025
It’s just a small leak—only a bit of water after a heavy rain. Maybe it’s not even dripping anymore. You tell yourself it can wait until next month. But in roofing, small leaks never stay small for long. One of the biggest mistakes Irish homeowners make is underestimating the seriousness of a minor roof leak. What seems like a harmless drip today can turn into significant structural damage tomorrow. Roof leaks often start out as slow, steady intrusions—barely noticeable at first. But water doesn’t just disappear. It seeps deeper into timber, insulation, and internal ceilings. Over time, the damage becomes more widespread and expensive to repair. When left untreated, water can rot wooden roof beams, encourage mould growth, and weaken the overall structure of your roof. You may even notice damage to internal walls, ceilings, or electrical wiring. Repairing those areas will cost far more than fixing the original leak. Many homeowners in Ireland put off leak repairs due to cost or convenience, especially during wet months. But ironically, the longer you delay, the more expensive the repair becomes. What might have been a simple job—like resealing flashing or replacing a tile—can quickly escalate into full roof replacements, timber treatment, or internal plasterwork. Aside from structural damage, there's also the impact on your health. Persistent dampness in your home increases the risk of mould, which can cause respiratory issues, especially in children or the elderly. The longer the water has to travel, the harder it becomes to find the source. By the time a leak shows up on your ceiling, it may have started on the other side of the roof. At Patrick Hannifin Roofing, we often find customers surprised by how far water has travelled before becoming visible indoors. We recommend addressing leaks immediately—whether it’s a cracked tile, lifted flashing, or a minor hole in the roof membrane. Our team provides prompt, professional roof leak repairs throughout Ireland, ensuring your home stays dry, secure, and protected.
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