One of the most important parts of chimney maintenance is making sure that smoke has a clear path out of the house. But what about the problems caused by things getting in to your chimney? That is the key function of a chimney cap.
Chimney caps are protective structures, often with mesh sides, that cover the chimney from the top while still allowing smoke to exit through the sides.
If your chimney isn’t capped and you have had issues with anything from rain to small animals getting into your Duluth-area chimney, our technicians can install a cap that fits with your chimney to stop those unwanted intrusions.
Keep Precipitation Out: Chimneys are a common rooftop feature that serve an important function. When it rains or snows, however, they are also an access point for water to get into your house. This can cause, among other problems, corrosion in the chimney flue. Keep the precipitation outside where it belongs with a chimney cap, which can keep the water from entering through the chimney, instead directing it past the opening, onto the roof and to the gutters.
Keep Small Animals Out: The warm confines of a chimney can be attractive to a variety of small animals, from birds to raccoons to even snakes. If a chimney cap has mesh sides, it can keep these animals out. This also prevents the substantial headache that comes if one of them should die in the chimney.
Keep Leaves and Debris Out: Chimney caps can also keep leaves and debris that could clog the flue from entering your chimney. Keep in mind, however, that they can also clog the sides of the cap, meaning that you should keep an eye on the cap to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Keep Sparks and Embers In: The last thing you want flying out of your chimney is a burning ember that is going to light your roof or an over-hanging tree on fire. A chimney cap can serve as a deflector for these, keeping them inside the fireplace where they below while letting the smoke out.
Prevent Downdrafts: Wind can sometimes create downdrafts in chimneys which can be especially problematic if the fireplace is in use. Chimney caps can help prevent these downdrafts by preventing some measure of shelter from the wind.
Maintenance is Key
The key to a chimney cap being able to do its job properly is to keep it clean and well maintained. That means doing a visual inspection after storms to make sure leaves or other debris are not blocking.
Also, much like chimneys themselves, the mesh on chimney caps can become blocked with creosote if it is not properly maintained.
Searching for a Chimney Repair Company Near You? Contact Alliance Today
Interested in having a cap installed on your Duluth-area home’s chimney? The chimney and fireplace experts at Alliance Inc. can install the right cap for your chimney. Contact us today to learn more.
