Get Quality & Reliable Chimney Cap Installation Services from Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney, Inc.
Your chimney is a complex system that needs all components to work properly so that it can do its job safely and efficiently. Although the brick-and-mortar exterior makes it look indestructible, exposure to water and wildlife can put it out of commission. To help defend your chimney and hearth appliance from the elements, a chimney cap can give your system the protection it needs.
At Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney, our experienced technicians specialize in top-notch chimney cap installation services, ensuring the safety and structural integrity of your home and chimney. If you’d like to set up an appointment, call us at 303-679-1601 or reach out to us online.
What Is a Chimney Cap? Why Do I Need One?
A chimney cap is a cover that covers the top of your chimney where it opens to the outdoors. It sits right above the chimney crown – or chase cover if you have a factory-built fireplace. It’s typically made from metal such as aluminum or stainless steel and often has a mesh screen. The main purpose of a chimney cap is to act as a protective barrier between the elements and the inside of your chimney system.
A chimney cap is a vital part of your chimney system for a few key reasons:
- It protects against water intrusion. Rain, snow, and outside debris like leaves and twigs can easily get into an exposed chimney flue. The cap helps to protect the interior of the chimney and the fireplace from water damage.
- It keeps wildlife at bay. Animals are known to gravitate towards chimneys for nesting and shelter, with birds, raccoons, rodents, and skunks being some of the most popular offenders. A chimney cap with a mesh screen deters these destructive and dangerous pests, saving you a lot of money on wildlife removal services and chimney repairs.
- It can improve draft. When the wind blows down the chimney and pushes smoke back into the house, it’s called a downdraft. A well-designed chimney cap helps prevent downdrafts and ensures that smoke and toxins are being safely vented from the home.
- It’s another line of defense against fires. Sparks escaping the chimney can ignite nearby combustible materials like your roof. Chimney caps – especially those with spark screens – help stop this from happening.
How Do I Know If My Chimney Cap Needs To Be Replaced?
Chimney caps can often be out of sight, out of mind for homeowners. Because it’s located at the top of your chimney, you may not think about it unless your annual chimney inspection uncovers a problem.
However, there are signs you can keep an eye out for if your chimney cap is compromised before you get to your yearly checkup:
- Visible damage. Physical damage can include cracks, dents, or warping. This may be harder to see from ground level but try to take a glimpse at your chimney now and then.
- Rust and corrosion. Since the chimney cap is made from metal, it can be prone to rust which weakens its structure. If you see rust streaks or a heavily rusted cap, it’s time for a replacement.
- Signs of water leaks. Have you noticed water leaks in your fireplace or water stains around the chimney? This could be an indication that your chimney cap isn’t keeping out rain and snow the way it was intended to.
- More downdrafts. If there has been an increase in instances of smoke spilling back into your house when using the fireplace, a damaged or improperly installed chimney cap might be to blame.
- New houseguests. When animals move in, they tend to make their presence known. An infestation might manifest as a foul stench, sounds of tiny paws scurrying, or actual sightings. A missing or damaged chimney cap is a frequent entry point for animals.
Protect Your Chimney From Water & Animal Damage
Water exposure and animal intrusion are among the leading causes of chimney damage. A well-built and properly installed chimney cap is one of the most basic protections we have against both culprits. If you need a cap installed or you have a damaged one that needs to be replaced, call Mountain Man Fireplace & Chimney today at 303-679-1601 or request an appointment on our website.
A common source for chimney leaks is chimney crowns in need of repair. Our help is only a phone call away!