Going up....

Good morning folks.
Continuing the saga of the chimneys today, this time it's all about what is outside. More accurately I should say what's not outside.

 When we got up onto the roof we discovered that pretty much all the chimney openings were exposed. Nothing in place to stop water or birds from getting in.

 The top stones were loose, the stone "overhangs were in poor condition too as well as the pointing.

 The other chimney is just as bad.

So, though we were hoping to avoid the expense, there was just too much work needed so it was time to make the phone call.....

Yep, scaffolding required up to the chimneys. All I can say is that I'm glad it isn't me putting it up!

At least now it is safe to work up there now and for the last couple of weeks the builder has taken advantage of the few dry weather days.

 Eight of these slabs had to be carried up which was no fun.

New chimney pots ready to go (along with cap pieces to stop water and birds)

 reinforcing mesh to support where needed.

Not forgetting, copious amounts of cement and concrete....

At least when it's done all the issues internally with water ingress should be solved and we'll be all good for the next twenty years......

Next step will be sorting the lounge fireplace out so I'll catch you all later for another "smashing" episode. One day we might get round to building things up again. At the moment all we seem to be doing is breaking things down.....