An important component of any chimney system is the top of the chimney. The chimney cap is installed onto the top of the chimney and is vital for preventing water intrusion. The chimney cap also prevents animals from nesting inside the chimney flue. The chase cover, often confused with the chimney cap is different entirely, but many use the two terms interchangeably, adding to the confusion.
The Chase Cover
A chase cover is used for a pre-fab or factory-built fireplace. Unlike a chimney cap that covers only the top of the flue opening, a chase cover fits over the top of the chimney. They’re also called “top pans” because they top chimneys that are sided with vinyl, metal, or wood. They are a common cause of rust stains on the chimney if installed incorrectly. Ideally the chase cover helps the water to run off completely instead of pooling doing the work of a chimney crown on a masonry chimney. The chimney cap is installed onto the chase cover in the same way as with a chimney crown on a masonry chimney.
Common problems with a chase cover include:
- If installed incorrectly, a chase cover can allow water to flow directly into the chimney, lowering efficiency, raising risk of fire, and causing damage and rust to parts within the system.
- If the chase cover is too flat, water can pool on the top allowing it to rust, causing leaks in the chase cover and unsightly rust stains on the chimney.
- If the chase cover is not coupled with a chimney cap, water will still penetrate the system by falling into the flue opening.
The Chimney Cap
Chimney caps are installed at the top of the chimney and protect the flue against water and wildlife as well as prevent sparks from escaping. On brick chimneys the cap is installed directly onto the chimney crown. The chimney crown is the equivalent to the chase cover. It is a concrete block that prevents water from entering the chimney.
Common problems with a chimney cap include:
- Failure to install a chimney cap. Many older generations don’t see the need in a chimney cap. However, advancements in the industry have indicated that water can wreak havoc on a masonry chimney. Preventing water penetration is absolutely vital for prolonging the life of your chimney.
- An improperly installed or damaged chimney cap can allow water penetration that goes unnoticed until it has caused damage or sudden decrease in efficiency. It is vital to schedule annual inspections of the entire chimney system because the chimney cap can be affected by storms, wildlife, and in some cases high winds. A chimney expert can catch a problem before it causes damage.
Examples Of Chimney Caps We’ve Installed
Here are multiple caps we installed in a home with several chimneys. The customer opted for the beautiful copper caps.
This is an outside mounted chimney cap on a masonry chimney.
If you’re unsure if you should have a chase cover or a chimney crown and cap, you should find a chimney expert today! Brickliners chimney technicians are certified experts who can install the best chimney cap or chase cover for your home’s chimney. Services are affordable, and preventative measures save money in the future.
Talk to a Brickliners chimney sweep today. Call 802-872-0123 or request an appointment online.