Caps vs. Crowns vs. Covers

From summer’s sweltering heat and humidity to the bone-chilling cold and snow of winter, Pittsburgh chimneys face a constant battle against Mother Nature. Guarding the chimney from atop, caps, crowns, and covers is a full-time job, and these components are crucial to maintaining your chimney’s structural integrity. Let’s discuss these essential components in more detail:

Custom chimney cap installations in Clarksburg WV & Waynesburg PAUnderstanding Chimney Caps

A chimney cap is a metal component covering the top of the chimney and flue. It is the stack’s first line of defense, deflecting wind, rain, snow, animals, and debris from the chimney. The cap also helps keep the chimney crown dry and prevents rain and snow from dripping into the fireplace. Since chimney caps are available in different sizes, it is critical to ensure you have a cap that fits the size of your chimney for maximum protection and performance.

What Is a Chimney Crown

The chimney crown is the sloped surface that covers the exposed flue pipe at the top of a masonry chimney. It’s typically constructed from concrete, mortar, or stone and should include a drip edge. The crown’s primary function is to divert rainwater from the chimney, preventing leaks and protecting the masonry against water damage

What Is a Chase Cover

A chase cover or chase pan is a metal fitting that securely covers the entire width of your manufactured fireplace’s chimney. Chase covers act like a chimney crown, preventing rain, snow, and debris from entering the wood-framed chase and protecting the flue and siding. A chimney cap sits on top of the chase cover to keep out small animals and pests while allowing the proper venting of smoke and exhaust.

Why You Need Them

Whether you have a masonry chimney or a manufactured fireplace, these components are critical for safety, efficiency, and performance. 

  • Enhanced Durability: They help extend the lifespan of your chimney and venting system by safeguarding it from the damaging effects of water, animals, and debris.
  • Improved Efficiency: A well-maintained chimney ensures proper ventilation, leading to a better draft, reduced energy costs, and optimal appliance performance.
  • Reduced Fire Risk: Chimney caps prevent sparks and embers from landing on your roof or nearby tree branches, lowering the risk of fires.
  • Animal Deterrence: Chimney caps and crowns effectively keep animals and pests out of your chimney, preventing unwanted guests, potential fire hazards, and exposure to harmful contaminants.
  • Minimizes Repairs: Maintaining these crucial components reduces the risk of water damage, minimizing the need for costly repairs and component replacements.

A certified chimney professional must inspect your chimney annually to ensure its capability to combat external threats and to ensure the optimal performance of your venting system and attached heating appliances, such as fireplaces, inserts, and stoves. 

Chimney Cap install Monroeville, PAPittsburgh Chimney Inspections & Repair Services 

For expert chimney inspections, cleaning, repairs, and installations of chimney caps, crowns, and chase covers in southwestern Pennsylvania, contact Advance Chimney Sweeps today. Our certified professionals serve communities throughout the region, including East Palestine, Murrysville, Steubenville, and Wexford. Visit our website to schedule an appointment and keep your Pittsburgh chimney safe and sound throughout the year.