Chimney Cap/Damper
A chimney cap is a stylish way to top your chimney, but it serves a much larger purpose than just decorating your chimney. Investing in a proper chimney cap is one of the most effective ways to protect and maintain your chimney and flue. A good chimney cover will protect your chimney from damage caused by animals, debris, and dampness, and will save you money on future chimney repairs. Continue reading to find out how a properly made and installed chimney cap can safeguard your chimney!
Animals
Birds, squirrels, rats, raccoons, and other animals use uncapped chimneys as safe havens from predators or as locations to establish nests for their young. Unfortunately, most animals are unable to pass the slick flue liners and become trapped in the chimney; the sounds – and odors – that accompany a trapped animal may be highly unpleasant and unpleasant for many people.
Debris
Your flue is open at the top if you don't have a chimney cap. This means that debris from neighboring trees, small branches and twigs, blowing rubbish, and even Frisbees and balls have all been known to find their way into uncapped chimneys, causing a blockage or causing a chimney fire.
Rain & Snow
One of the most harmful threat to your chimney is water. The flue and chimney structure are vulnerable to moisture exposure from ice, hail, rain, sleet, and snow without a chimney cap. Moisture wreaks havoc on your masonry chimney's bricks and mortar, causing them to chip, crack, and spall. Water can also harm the interior of your chimney as well as metal components such as the flue liner, damper, and firebox.
Chimney Damper
If the damper rusts or gets stuck in the open position, it may not be able to open or close as needed. If the damper cannot be opened to start a fire in the fireplace, the smoke will not be able to exit the chimney (instead it will flow back into the house) and the air flow to the fire will be inadequate. If the damper cannot be closed when the fire is extinguished, a draft will occur and warm air will escape from the chimney.