Part of your end-of-season chimney inspection and cleaning includes having a look at the chimney cap. If an inspection finds a cap missing or in disrepair, we strongly recommend an installation or replacement. A chimney cap has three main functions that are important for reasons of safety as well as cost.
Water
A chimney cap helps keep water out of your chimney. This is important because of the damage water causes:
- Water in chimneys can rust several parts, including dampers, liners, and accessories.
- Water saturates mortar joints, aiding in deterioration of the chimney.
- Water promotes growth of mold.
- Water causes foul odors from mold and creosote.
Animals and Debris
Chimney caps keep out more than water. An open chimney invites many sorts of creatures, which come in to make homes, hide out, or explore. Raccoons, squirrels, birds, and reptiles can climb in, causing dangerous blockages. In addition, if they die inside your chimney, it results in a nasty smell that can fill your house. Debris such as leaves and branches find their way into an uncapped chimney. These also create blockages and fire hazards.
Embers
As well as keeping things out, chimneys are important for keeping things in. Chimney caps prevent wafting embers from escaping the chimney and catching fire to the surrounding area. For this purpose, chimney caps are sometimes referred to as spark arrestors.
So, there you have it. Chimney caps have an important job to do. By keeping water, debris, and animals out, and by keeping embers in, your home is safer. This also reduces the risk of costly repairs due to damage.
To learn more about chimney safety, or to schedule and inspection, please contact us.
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