Home Garden

How to Cure Chimney Crowns

After years of use and exposure to the elements your existing concrete chimney crown will begin to show signs of wear -- including chips, cracks and breakage. A total replacement is the more feasible choice once the existing crown falls into disrepair. This involves removing the busted crown and pouring replacement cement. Ensure your newly constructed concrete chimney crown cures quickly through the proper techniques, which also includes when you pour the crown.

Things You'll Need

  • Hammer
  • Chisel
  • Wooden form
  • Concrete
  • Trowel
  • Garden hose
  • Heavy, clear plastic sheeting
  • Staples or small nails
  • Concrete sealant
  • Paintbrush
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the existing concrete with a hammer and chisel, place a new wooden form into place and pour the concrete. Use a trowel to smooth the concrete’s surface and remove any excess product.

    • 2

      Mist the newly poured concrete with water. Using a garden hose, spray enough water over the concrete to thoroughly wet it, but don’t change the consistency of the still-moist product.

    • 3

      Stretch a piece of heavy, clear plastic over the concrete form. Secure the plastic to the form with staples or small nails. The heavy plastic holds the moisture near the drying concrete, which lessens shrinkage and increases the finished concrete’s stability and strength. The plastic also prevents the curing concrete from damage by inclement weather.

    • 4

      Allow the concrete to cure completely. Depending on the temperature and depth of concrete poured, this process could take several weeks. Once the concrete is cured, remove the plastic and wooden frame.

    • 5

      Cover the concrete with a thin layer of sealant. Using a paintbrush, apply the sealant to prevent future cracking and breakage.