A chimney cap is the component of your chimney system that rests at the top of the chimney crown, covering the open chimney flue while still allowing gases, vapor, and smoke to vent when the fireplace is being used. Like a custom roof for your chimney, chimney caps give your chimney a polished look that can enhance the street appeal of your home, but their usefulness goes much further than that!
The Importance of a Chimney Cap
While small in size, your chimney cap is mighty in the function it performs. Very simply, it acts as a barrier between the elements and the interior of your chimney. But the significance of this barrier has many implications. If you have a fireplace, a chimney cap is essential for maintaining the health and safety of your system.
What exactly is your chimney cap keeping out?
It prevents general debris, such as leaves, twigs, and litter, from making its way into your chimney. These things can clog your chimney flue, leading to smoke and fire hazards. A blocked chimney can also cause carbon monoxide to build up in your home, which can be deadly if not addressed.- Chimney caps also keep animals out. Birds looking for a place to nest, or squirrels or raccoons looking for a quiet hideaway, may determine that your chimney is an ideal spot. Nesting material and droppings in a chimney are problematic, and if an animal becomes trapped the animal itself can become a source of blockage and odor.
- Significantly, chimney caps also protect against the elements, directing snow, rain, and sleet away from your chimney opening. Water is the natural enemy of a healthy chimney because it can cause substantial damage, deterioration, and structural problems.
- Chimney caps also guard against downdrafts that can affect the comfort of your home, especially in winter. With a well-fitting, well-installed chimney cap in place, the temperature of your home will be more stable, which can positively affect energy bills.
- Finally, chimney caps act as a line of defense against uncontained fire at both ends of your chimney. Downdrafts can carry sparks and embers into your home, so restricting them minimizes this risk. Additionally, many chimney caps also act as spark arresters, stopping errant sparks that travel up your chimney from reaching your roof or yard. By guarding your chimney liner from water damage, your chimney cap helps your liner to fulfill its purpose – protecting the chimney walls and limiting heat transfer within the chimney – which also helps prevent fire hazards.
How Is a Chimney Cap Installed?
In theory, installing a chimney cap could be tackled as a DIY project. In reality, however, it should always be left to the professionals. There are several reasons why.
First, if saving money is your aim, keep in mind that this will only be achieved if you select the right chimney cap and ensure it’s correctly installed. Otherwise, you could end up not only needing to call in an expert to correct any issues with the chimney cap itself, but also to address system damage resulting from an poorly fitting or incorrectly installed chimney cap. Because of the crucial role a chimney cap plays in protecting your chimney system, this can be substantial.
On a related note, a professional installer brings a wealth of expertise. They’ll know which type of chimney cap will fit properly and whether you’d get added benefit from a specialty cap based on your location and needs. With a trained eye and skilled hands, they’ll know and ensure the cap is well fitting and securely installed.
There’s also the safety factor. Anytime you’re working from a ladder or on your roof – especially if your roof has a steep pitch – proper safety equipment, experience, and knowledge are imperative. A chimney professional will have the right equipment and training to access your chimney safely.
How will your chimney pro approach the task?
In the hands of an expert, it’s a pretty straightforward and pain-free process. The sweep will measure your chimney to determine the appropriate size and shape for your chimney cap. Then, you’ll be presented with any options that meet your needs. Generally, chimney caps come in several material options such as galvanized or stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. These offer different looks, levels of durability, and anticipated useful lifespan. Your installer will help you choose a cap that fits your desires, needs, and budget.
After determining what you need, the sweep will give your chimney a thorough professional cleaning to remove any debris before installing the chimney cap. Once installed, it will be inspected to ensure it’s well-secured and functioning properly.
What Does a Chimney Cap Cost?
Especially considering the impact a chimney cap has on the well-being of your chimney system, the cost is relatively low. Ultimately, the investment more than pays for itself by protecting your chimney liner, mortar, and other components.
The cost of a chimney cap installation can vary depending on the size and shape of your chimney, the material you choose, location of your chimney, and chimney cap style.We are happy to provide an estimate that suits your need and budget.
It’s important to note that the cost of not having a chimney cap can be much higher – a clogged chimney can cause fire and smoke hazards, and water damage can be expensive and give mold and mildew an opportunity to grow in your home. Remedying these issues can be time-consuming, stressful, and costly, so it’s better to invest in chimney cap installation upfront.
Reach Out Today
If you’re in need of a chimney cap installation or want a chimney cap upgrade to enhance your home’s aesthetic, don’t hesitate to reach out. Our CSIA certified professionals will take the time to answer your questions, explain the installation process, and present you options with your needs, wants, and budget in mind. Our goal is to serve!
Call 901-483-5113 or book your appointment online to get started.
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