$3,800 seems a bit high - around here masons get $90 per hour. Could be more work to rebuild with the same stone as it will be like putting together a puzzle. Will they be taking out the permit or are they asking you to do the permit? Do they carry their own worker's comp insurance? If a sole proprietor, they do not need workers comp in this state. If he has a helper - that changes things. Check those things out and also check with your house insurance if he is unlicensed to see if they would cover an injury. Hate to be a Debbie downer, roof work is dangerous, you want to make sure they are legit.
Get a few quotes from certified masons and be sure to ask for some recent references that you can follow up on.
PS: How bad off is the chimney? From a distance it looks ok.
1. What is the structure? Stone veneer on concrete block? Entirely stone? Any vertical rebar or other reinforcing?
2. Why is it being rebuilt? Structure unsound and needs entire replacement? Or just veneer being taken down?
3. Height...should be at least 2' higher at top of flue than anything within 10' horizontally from that point (the gable roof to the right). Looks like it is currently OK height code wise. May want to add height for better draft, but that does raise questions about keeping it structurally sound.
4. Make sure there is a proper cricket installed on uproof side of the chimney. It can be challenging to properly flash the roof to rounded stones.
5. You might want to add some kickout flashing or a gutter so roof runoff isn't splashing onto the flared out chimney base below roof edge.
6. Consider demo'ing the entire thing and substituting a class A chimney through the roof. While it does add architectural character, the stone chimney is a big hole in your building's thermal envelope and can be a maintenance item long term, between mortar repairs and water infiltration.
7. Is line with clay flue tile and are repairs to same needed below the roof line?
Either method of repair, even with the most qualified who say they aren't too sure, It is always better to be safe even if it means replacement. You'll have years of peace and you are still saving on traditional heating methods.You might not even have a choice, depending on your local board and what statues they have for your area. In my area I didn't have a choice, had to be redone just like it was, so instead of about $1500 it cost $4k. I had to have the clay liner removed in order to get an Insulated 6" ss in there. Much safer now.
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