Chimney caps have several functions. Almost all flues require covers or terminations to protect the crown from rain when passing inside. Rain can damage the fireplace and even ruin the walls. These caps prevent birds from building nests inside the chimneys. Also, this addition to your fireplace is very important for metal fireplaces because they are made up of two or three layers of metal and have embedded air between them.
In the absence of a custom chimney cap, water and moisture can destroy the metal. Most manufacturers install the caps at the time of installation. This is the best time to install the product because you do not need to check its size and shape, moreover, it is usually made from the same brand and provides the best protection for your home.
Sometimes you may need to install a new custom cap on your chimney when you are faced with wind or draft issues, worn caps, and unavailability of the OEM product. If you are facing high intensity wind problems, your best option will be vacuum caps that are specially designed to help you with your draft (wind) problems. Professional sweeps can best describe your needs and provide you with a customized solution.
The best option on your new cap is to use the same brand as the installed chimneys. Custom caps are an alternative option in the absence of manufacturer’s brand caps for your metal fireplace. Some of the metal ducts are “air cooled” by venting them at the top. Make sure not to close the ventilation slots of these metal chimney solutions because that can cause a fire in the house. You must choose special caps for these products that ensure proper refrigeration.
Cons of Chimney Caps:
An improperly designed cap can cause a draft restriction and may reduce draft. Fine mesh lids become blocked by creosote and soot after heavy use. Screen clogging in the caps reduces the performance of your fireplace. Sometimes creosote can build up on the caps which can trickle out of the chimney frame. This leakage can cause discoloration. occasionally caps can also be blown away or even destroyed in high winds. Replacing or reinstalling a new cover may incur additional charges.
Advantages of chimney caps:
Chimney caps prevent birds and raccoons from building nests in the walls. These caps protect your flues from moisture and rain from entering your chimney and also keep odor away from your home. These caps protect the crowns and remove ice from them and extend the life of the crowns. Also, these caps increase the draft, especially in the region of strong winds.
Simply put, chimney caps are very important to your fireplaces and are available in various sizes including 8″ x 8″, 12″ x 12″ and 8″ x 12″, and are also available in other custom sizes.
