Your home’s chimney serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. That’s why it’s so important to take good care of it and conduct regular maintenance; otherwise, you may be left with a chimney that’s as dangerous as it is ugly.
One way that homeowners in Hermitage can protect their chimney is with a chimney cap. These chimney accessories help keep your chimney safe, operational, and looking beautiful all year round.
Of course, it’s not enough to just get any chimney cap. You have to get the right one for your specific chimney.
What is a Chimney Cap?
A chimney cap, put simply, is a cap for your chimney. It’s a covering that sits on the very top of the chimney. They can be made from a variety of materials, but typically copper or steel mesh. On top of the mesh is a solid metal plate that further shields the chimney.
For as many different types of chimneys exist, there are just as many different types of chimney caps. The most important thing to consider when choosing the right cap for your chimney is the right material. While there are a variety of different options, most people choose from three types of material:
- Copper
- Galvanized metal
- Stainless steel
Copper and stainless steel tend to be on the more expensive side. However, they also come with considerable aesthetic and durability advantages.
Galvanized metal is often less expensive, but you shouldn’t use them on chimneys with gas logs. Additionally, they may be quicker to rust. Over time, this could lead to the cap damaging the chimney itself.
Why Install a Chimney Cap?
Chimney caps serve several points of protection for your chimney; a cap will prevent animals and birds from using your chimney as a roost or nest, while also keeping animal droppings out of your chimney.
With a chimney cap, you’ll also prevent leaves and other debris from making their way into the flute. This is an essential safety feature as it dramatically reduces the odds of a chimney fire occurring.
Speaking of fires, a cap keeps sparks from being thrown from the chimney and potentially landing on your roof or a nearby tree. This serves as another fire-prevention feature. A cap will also protect your chimney from rain, which can damage your chimney in several ways:
- Rain mixes with creosote in your chimney to turn into a corrosive acid that will eat away at bricks and mortar joints.
- Rain mixing with creosote can also lead to an extremely unpleasant smell that permeates your home.
- Rain aids in rusting metal parts and makes the cap less stable and more difficult to open and close.
Why Hire a Professional for Your Chimney Cap Installation?
Installing or replacing a chimney cap is a job that should be left to professionals. Professional chimney technicians will double-check the measurements of your chimney and install the new chimney cap securely. Otherwise, you risk losing the cap and causing extensive property damage during periods of strong winds or other extreme weather.
Professional Chimney Cap Installation and Repair near Nashville, TN
At Chim Chimney, we are the chimney cap installation experts. We’ll help you find the ideal chimney cap for your home, and whether you need a chimney cap replacement for your current one or are purchasing a cap for the first time, our team of professional experts will work safely, efficiently, and effectively to ensure that we exceed your expectations. We also offer annual inspections and can sweep soot out to keep your family safe.
Schedule one of our chimney services today by calling 615-364-8987.
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