The Role of Chimney Caps in Winter Weather

There are many aspects to your chimney. It is beneficial to know about the different parts of your chimney. The chimney cap is one to be aware of. It plays an intricate role in your chimney. During the winter the chimney cap helps to keep the chimney functioning. Here is why.

What is A Chimney Cap?

A chimney cap is a protective cover that goes over the top of the chimney. Usually, it is made of steel and copper mesh. Chimney caps come in a variety of styles. You can buy them to complement your home with color and style. On the top of a mesh base is a cap that protects the chimney from allowing debris, like sticks and leaves to get in.

Do I Need a Chimney Cap?

A chimney cap is an essential part of the chimney. It keeps water out of your chimney. Water in the chimney can lead to leakage, breakdown, and corrosion of the interior of your chimney. Not only does a chimney cap keep water out, but it also keeps debris and animals away from your chimney. So yes, the Chimney plays a very big part in the makeup of your chimney.

As the weather turns, rain, snow, and sleet will start thrashing at your chimney. The biggest culprit is the freezing-thawing effect of ice. When water gets into your chimney and it freezes along the chimney wall, the process begins. The expansion and contraction of the mortar over time can crack or crumble. The chimney cap will protect the interior of your chimney from this. Proper protection of the chimney will protect it for years to come.

What Are the Different Types of Chimney Caps?

Copper and stainless steel make up some of the more popular chimney caps. They are also made of aluminum and galvanized steel. Experts suggest that the best material for a chimney cap is stainless steel. A stainless-steel chimney cap is a popular choice due to its cost as well as performance. Stainless steel tends to be more expensive than aluminum or galvanized steel. But you will find that they are more durable, and the maintenance is much lower, which is important.

Chimney Cap Maintenance:

• The mesh that sits under the chimney caps has very small openings. Often creosote builds up and can become clogged.
• An optional Firestarter should be considered rather than paper. The ash from the paper can get stuck in the mesh creating a blockage.
• The wind can cause leaves and debris to attach to the side of the mesh under the cap. Again, a blockage may occur.
• During heavy snow, ice and snow buildup can also block the opening.

Call A1 Chimney Solutions

You can contact A1 Chimney Solutions by calling us in TN at 931-967-3595 or in AL at 256-285-4895. If you require any chimney repairs or service, we are your solution.

We provide chimney inspections, maintenance, repair, installation, custom chimney caps, masonry repair, flashing, and dryer vent cleaning. We serve the areas of Southern Middle Tennessee and the Tennessee Valley.