Why is a Chimney Cap Important?

by | Feb 23, 2017 | Chimney Cap

The chimney cap is one of the most essential, yet often overlooked part of a chimney system. It does multiple jobs to protect your chimney, yet many still question it’s purpose. The professionals know that every chimney should have a cap. Regardless the type of fuel it uses, how tall it is, and no matter what the climate or geographic location.

Masonry Chimney Cap on Roof - Raleigh NC - Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service

Chimney Caps Keep Weather Out

The chimney cap covers the flue opening. Without it, rain, snow, and sleet falls into the chimney without deterrent. Snow that collects on the top of the chimney will melt and drip into the chimney. No matter the weather or circumstance, the chimney cap is the first guard against weather entering the chimney.

When water is allowed to enter the chimney, it can destroy the masonry from the inside out. Masonry is constructed of many materials. These materials are adversely affected by moisture. Therefore causing rust, weakness, crumbling, stains, and deterioration. The best protection for your chimney masonry is to prevent water penetration in the first place!

Chimney Caps Keep Wildlife Out

The chimney flue is a warm, dry space. This space attracts animals through the cold winter months. Also, as a nesting period in spring. For example, the Chimney Swift, also called the American Swift is a bird often found nesting in North American chimneys in the spring months. Animals can damage the interior of the chimney. They leave debris that can become a fire hazard, and obstruct the flue completely, restricting air flow. Animals in the chimney not only cause trouble, but decrease the chimney’s efficiency. In addition, they can be a hassle to remove – especially if they suffocate and die in your chimney.

Chimney Caps Keep Sparks In

At times, a roaring fire can throw sparks up the chimney that can fly out of the flue’s opening. If the roof has collected dried leaves, twigs, and other debris, the sparks can ignite these flammable materials and cause a disastrous fire.

Chimney Caps Should be Professionally Installed

Chimney caps, like all other installations that affect your chimney system, should be installed by a certified professional. A certified chimney sweep is able to fit a chimney cap to your chimney perfectly. They pay attention to the details that a less experienced provider may overlook, leading to leaks and damage.

Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service recommends chimney caps for all of our customers. This is because we strive for the highest level of safety and efficiency. Common causes of chimney leaks are a missing, damaged, or an improperly installed chimney cap. However, this type of leak can be prevented when you call a professional today. In addition, Mr. Smokestack Chimney Service even has convenient online scheduling.

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