Professional Chimney Repair & Fireplace Services in Minneapolis, MN

Protect your home from chimney damage, water intrusion, fire hazards, and fireplace problems with professional chimney services from Top Hat Chimney Repair. We help Minneapolis-area homeowners with chimney repair, inspections, cleaning, masonry, caps, liners, waterproofing, and fireplace services.

Call Us:612-512-8600

Chimney Repair

Inspections & Cleaning

Masonry & Waterproofing

Fireplace Services

Chimney Problems Shouldn’t Be Guesswork

A chimney problem that looks minor from the ground can involve the crown, masonry, flashing, liner, cap, or fireplace system.

Top Hat Chimney Repair takes a problem-first approach: identify what is actually happening, explain the findings clearly, and recommend the appropriate solution.

01 • Diagnose

Identify visible damage, performance concerns, and potential problem areas.

02 • Explain

Understand what is happening, why it matters, and what options are available.

03 • Resolve

Move forward with the appropriate repair, maintenance, or service.

WHY CHOOSE TOP HAT CHIMNEY REPAIR

Welcome to Top Hat Chimney Repair, the trusted chimney and roofing experts serving Minneapolis and surrounding areas, including Champlin, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, Minnetonka, and more. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we offer unparalleled expertise in chimney repairs, cleaning, inspections, and roofing services. Our CSIA-certified technicians ensure your chimney is safe, efficient, and properly maintained.

We proudly serve Minneapolis, Champlin, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, Wayzata, and all surrounding areas.

COMPLETE CHIMNEY CARE

One system. Many ways it can need attention.

A chimney connects exterior masonry, roof flashing, flue components, a cap and crown, and the fireplace below. Start with the service closest to what you see—or request an evaluation if the cause is unclear.

01

Chimney Repair

Restore damaged masonry, crowns, flashing, and other chimney components after a careful evaluation.

Learn about chimney repair →

02

Chimney Inspection

Understand the visible and accessible condition of your chimney and fireplace system.

Learn about chimney inspection →

03

Chimney Cleaning

Remove soot and combustible deposits when inspection and use indicate cleaning is needed.

Learn about chimney cleaning →

04

Chimney Caps

Help keep rain, debris, and animals from entering an open flue.

Learn about chimney caps →

05

Chimney Liners

Evaluate liner condition and recommend an appropriate repair or replacement path.

Learn about chimney liners →

06

Chimney Flashing Repair

Address vulnerable roof-to-chimney transitions where water commonly enters.

Learn about chimney flashing repair →

07

Chimney Waterproofing

Reduce moisture absorption while allowing masonry to release vapor.

Learn about chimney waterproofing →

08

Chimney Leak Repair

Trace water intrusion to the crown, cap, flashing, masonry, or adjacent roof details.

Learn about chimney leak repair →

09

Masonry Chimney Repair

Repair weathered brick and mortar affected by moisture and freeze-thaw cycles.

Learn about masonry chimney repair →

10

Tuckpointing

Remove deteriorated mortar and place new mortar where joints have begun to fail.

Learn about tuckpointing →

11

Fireplace Repair

Diagnose firebox, damper, smoke, draft, and connected chimney concerns.

Learn about fireplace repair →

12

Fireplace Installation

Plan a fireplace installation around the home, venting path, and intended use.

Learn about fireplace installation →

13

Gas Fireplace Service

Evaluate gas fireplace performance and visible operating concerns.

Learn about gas fireplace service →

11

Damper Repair

Restore a damper that is difficult to operate, damaged, or no longer sealing properly.

Learn about dumper repair →

12

Animal Prevention

Help prevent birds and other animals from entering through an unprotected chimney.

Learn about animal prevention →

Homeowner Resource: Learn more about chimney maintenance, warning signs, and common repair concerns in our Chimney & Fireplace Knowledge Base (PDF).

PROBLEM-FIRST GUIDANCE

Common Chimney Problems We Help Homeowners Solve

Similar symptoms can come from different components. A stain near the fireplace does not automatically mean the flashing failed; smoke does not always mean the flue only needs cleaning.

Cracked crown

What may cause it
Weather exposure and movement can open cracks at the chimney top.
Why it matters
Water may enter the masonry and flue system.
What to do
Have the crown and connected components evaluated.

Missing mortar

What may cause it
Freeze-thaw cycles and age can weaken joints.
Why it matters
Open joints allow more water in and reduce stability.
What to do
Ask whether targeted tuckpointing or broader repair fits.

Smoke indoors

What may cause it
Blockage, draft conditions, operation, or venting may contribute.
Why it matters
Smoke entering living space calls for prompt attention.
What to do
Stop use and request a professional evaluation.

White staining

What may cause it
Moisture can carry salts to the masonry surface.                                       
Why it matters
It may point to recurring water movement through brick.
What to do
Identify the moisture source before cosmetic cleaning.

Water near fireplace

What may cause it
A cap, crown, flashing, masonry, or roof detail may be involved.
Why it matters
Hidden materials can stay damp after the visible drip stops.
What to do
Schedule leak diagnosis rather than guessing at one component.

Rust or fallen material

What may cause it
Moisture or component deterioration may be present.
Why it matters
Metal parts and liners can lose function as damage advances.
What to do
Do not resume use until the system is assessed.

BUILT FOR LOCAL CONDITIONS

Minnesota Weather Tests Every Exposed Joint

A chimney connects exterior masonry, roof flashing, flue components, a cap and crown, and the fireplace below. Start with the service closest to what you see—or request an evaluation if the cause is unclear.

FIRE SAFETY AUTHORITY

What causes chimney fires?

Chimney fires are often connected to ignited creosote—combustible residue left by wood smoke. Restricted flues, damaged liners, unsuitable venting, and improper fireplace operation can also raise concern.

Deposits

Creosote can accumulate in different forms. Inspection helps determine whether cleaning is needed and whether the flue can be used safely.

Blockage & airflow

Nesting, debris, or a closed or damaged component may restrict exhaust. Draft symptoms should be diagnosed before continued use.

Liner & venting

A damaged liner or unsuitable venting arrangement can change how heat and combustion products move through the system.

A disciplined process

The Right Repair Starts With The Right Diagnosis

Chimney problems can involve masonry, the crown, cap, flashing, liner, draft, or more than one component. The process keeps findings and recommendations connected.

01

Request Service

02

Inspect & Evaluate

03

Explain the Findings

04

Recommend the Solution

05

Complete the Work

06

Confirm Next Steps

Service area

Local Care Across The West and Southwest Metro.

The current Top Hat website names these communities. Confirm availability for your address when requesting service.

MN

Minneapolis

Chimney and fireplace service information for Minneapolis homeowners.

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MN

Champlin

Chimney and fireplace service information for Champlin homeowners.

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MN

Eden Prairie

Chimney and fireplace service information for Eden Prairie homeowners.

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MN

Excelsior

Chimney and fireplace service information for Excelsior homeowners.

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MN

Wayzata

Chimney and fireplace service information for Wayzata homeowners.

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MN

Minnetonka

Chimney and fireplace service information for Minnetonka homeowners.

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Service area

Chimney & Fireplace FAQs

Direct answers to common questions. Visible answers can also support appropriate FAQ structured data.

How often should a chimney be inspected?

An annual chimney inspection is a practical baseline, and an evaluation is also important after a chimney fire, property change, or when performance or damage concerns appear.

What causes chimney fires?

Combustible creosote deposits are a common contributor. Blockages, damaged liners, venting problems, and improper operation can also create unsafe conditions.

What causes chimney leaks?

Water can enter through a damaged cap or crown, failed flashing, porous masonry, open mortar joints, or nearby roof details. Diagnosis matters because several sources can create similar symptoms.

How do I know if my chimney needs repair?

Cracked brick, missing mortar, white staining, leaks, rust, loose material, a damaged cap, smoke problems, or unusual odors are reasons to request an evaluation.

How often should a chimney be cleaned?

Cleaning frequency depends on fuel, appliance, use, deposits, and system condition. Inspection helps determine whether sweeping is needed.

Does my chimney need a cap?

A correctly fitted cap can help limit rain, debris, and animal entry. The right size and design depend on the flue and chimney.

Can I use my fireplace if I notice damage?

If you see loose masonry, fallen liner material, active leaks, smoke entering the room, or other significant damage, stop use and arrange an evaluation.

How much does chimney repair cost?

Cost depends on the affected component, access, materials, and extent of damage. An inspection provides the information needed for a relevant estimate.

We proudly serve Minneapolis, Champlin, Eden Prairie, Excelsior, Wayzata, and all surrounding areas.

testimonials

“Top Hat Chimney Repair is the best in town! They did an excellent job cleaning my chimney and ensuring everything was up to code. The crew was professional and respectful. Highly recommend!”

— Sarah M., Minneapolis

“I called Top Hat to fix a leaking chimney, and they were quick to respond. They solved the issue efficiently, and their prices were fair. I’m glad I found a reliable company to take care of my chimney!”

— John R., Wayzata