BACKGROUND

A family in Burlington wanted to install solar panels, but the main roof plane, which gets the best sun, had a problem: part of their old masonry chimney sat right on the ideal array layout. Since they didn’t want to tear down the entire chimney, they called Brown Chimney to take out just enough so the panels fit.

THE PROBLEM

Leaving the chimney as-is meant the solar layout would be inefficient, but fully removing it down to the firebox would’ve been unnecessary and expensive. The challenge was removing some of the exterior sections without damaging the roof, creating leaks, or weakening the remaining structure.

THE BROWN CHIMNEY SOLUTION

We removed only the required section to clear space for the solar panels, restored the roof structure, and coordinated with the solar installation team.

• Carefully dismantled the chimney section above the roofline
• Rebuilt and reinforced the roof deck where the chimney used to be
• Flashed and sealed everything to ensure the area stayed watertight
• Coordinated with roofers and solar installers to make sure all tasks were aligned
• Ensured the remaining chimney structure was sealed, supported, and up to code

FINAL OUTCOME

Now with ample space for the full solar layout on the roof plane, the solar installation went ahead without delays. The family now enjoys a clean energy setup – and still has a fully functional fireplace with zero leaks. 

ESTIMATED COST

Chimney removals can cost anywhere from $1,000–$15,000, depending on the size and condition of the chimney. A simple demolition with basic repairs typically costs just a couple of grand, but complex structural work incurs higher costs.