The Importance Of A Chimney Chase Cover
Do you know what’s protecting your prefabricated chimney and fireplace? The answer should be a sturdy chimney chase cover! So, if you’re not familiar with what sits atop your chimney, it’s important you get acquainted with your chimney chase cover. This acts as your chimney’s primary defense against intruders!
What exactly is a chimney chase cover?
On a prefabricated chimney, the chase cover sits at the top of the chimney’s flue. It seals off the box that houses the chimney, called the chase, to the chimney’s flue. The opening of the chase cover should be topped with a chimney cap to keep water from running down the chimney flue.
Why does my chimney need a chase cover?
The chase cover is your chimney’s primary defense against the elements. The chase cover keeps water from running into the chimney chase. In addition, it directs water away from the chimney flue. The chase cover also keeps out animal intruders, including squirrels, birds, and raccoons. These critters like to nest inside chimneys, or accidentally find their way into chimneys and become trapped. Also, the chase also keeps out debris, such as falling leaves and twigs.
Why should I worry about my chase cover?
Oftentimes, prefabricated chimneys are installed with cheap, galvanized metal chase covers. However, these chase covers are not durable. Consequently, they corrode and develop cracks and holes that can let water in. Once a chase cover begins to deteriorate, your chimney is no longer protected from water and animal intruders.
How can I tell if my chase cover is in good repair?
If your chimney chase cover is failing, your fireplace could be giving you some signs that it is no longer protected. So, you may notice rusty streaks down the exterior sides of your chase, or see signs of water or rust within your fireplace. These may include a rusting damper, fireplace grate or doors, or you might see water pooling at the bottom of your fireplace! Of course, the best way to gauge the health of your chase cover is to have your chimney inspected. In addition, during your annual sweeping and inspection, your chimney sweep will inspect your chase cover. If you are unsure of its health, be sure to ask your sweep!
What do I do if my chimney needs a new chase cover?
If your chase cover is failing, Your Chimney Sweep can help! We offer replacement chase covers that we can install securely over your chase to keep it safe for years to come! Our chase covers come in durable materials. We carry copper, which is the more expensive but more durable option, and stainless steel, which provides a sleek look and secure protection for your chase.
If your chimney and chase cover are overdue for an inspection, or if you’ve noticed signs that your chase cover is failing, call Your Chimney Sweep at 317-243-9687 to schedule an appointment today!
