Chimney Caps Vs. Chase Covers: Know The Difference
An important component of any chimney system is the top of the chimney. The chimney cap is installed onto the top of the chimney and is vital for preventing water intrusion. The chimney cap also prevents animals from nesting inside the chimney flue. The chase cover, often confused with the chimney cap is different entirely, but many use the two terms interchangeably, adding to the confusion.
The Chase Cover
Ah, the often overlooked but crucial piece in the fireplace puzzle—the chase cover. It’s like the unsung hero for pre-fab or factory-built fireplaces, doing its magic over the top of the chimney.
So, it’s not just a cap—it’s a cover that wraps over the chimney, a guardian against the elements. They even have a cool alias—top pans, because, you know, they’re like the rooftop armor for chimneys dressed in vinyl, metal, or wood.
Installation is a bit of an art, and if done wrong, it can turn into a rusty situation, literally. Rust stains from a poorly installed chase cover are like battle scars on your chimney’s facade, telling tales of water infiltration.
But when done right, it’s a different story. The ideal chase cover is like a conductor for water, making it gracefully dance off the chimney instead of pooling and causing trouble. It’s almost like a water ballet on your rooftop, directed by the chase cover.
And here’s the beauty—the chase cover pulls double duty, moonlighting as a chimney crown for the pre-fab stars. It’s not just about keeping the rain out; it’s about doing it with style and efficiency.
And, of course, the chimney cap becomes the crown jewel, perched on the chase cover just like it does on a masonry chimney. It’s like the final touch, sealing the deal and making sure your fireplace is ready for whatever weather throws its way.
Chase covers, the silent protectors of pre-fab fireplaces. Anything else you want to explore in the world of chimney anatomy?
Common problems with a chase cover include:
- If installed incorrectly, a chase cover can allow water to flow directly into the chimney, lowering efficiency, raising risk of fire, and causing damage and rust to parts within the system.
- If the chase cover is too flat, water can pool on the top allowing it to rust, causing leaks in the chase cover and unsightly rust stains on the chimney.
- If the chase cover is not coupled with a chimney cap, water will still penetrate the system by falling into the flue opening.
The Chimney Cap
Chimney Caps Are Installed At The Top Of The Chimney And Protect The Flue Against Water And Wildlife As Well As Prevent Sparks From Escaping. On Brick Chimneys The Cap Is Installed Directly Onto The Chimney Crown. The Chimney Crown Is The Equivalent To The Chase Cover. It Is A Concrete Block That Prevents Water From Entering The Chimney.
Common Problems With A Chimney Cap Include:
Failure To Install A Chimney Cap. Many Older Generations Don’t See The Need In A Chimney Cap. However, Advancements In The Industry Have Indicated That Water Can Wreak Havoc On A Masonry Chimney. Preventing Water Penetration Is Absolutely Vital For Prolonging The Life Of Your Chimney.An Improperly Installed Or Damaged Chimney Cap Can Allow Water Penetration That Goes Unnoticed Until It Has Caused Damage Or Sudden Decrease In Efficiency. It Is Vital To Schedule Annual Inspections Of The Entire Chimney System Because The Chimney Cap Can Be Affected By Storms, Wildlife, And In Some Cases High Winds. A Chimney Expert Can Catch A Problem Before It Causes Damage.
Source: Https://Brickliners.Com/Chimney-Caps-Vs-Chase-Covers-Know-Difference/
