Chimney Caps & Covers: what's the difference?
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Concrete crowns cover entirely the top of a masonry chimney (except the flue) and protect the chase from the elements, especially water.
Metal chase covers also cover the entirety of the chimney top but are mostly used with prefab chimneys, often with wood or aluminum sides. A top-mounted damper replaces a throat damper and is easily controlled from below by a cable attached to a handle. Chimney caps cover only the flue and guard against water & animal entry into the flue itself. |
Chimney crown
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A concrete chimney crown covers the entirety of the chimney (except for the flue), and its overhang should extend outward at least 2 inches to protect the chimney chase from water damage due to rain and snow. Often the first part of the chimney to show signs of wear, the crown serves as a barometer of chimney health overall. Any cracks should be promptly repaired so as to avoid damage to the chimney interior. Depending on the extent of disrepair, our technicians can perform crown repair or a complete rebuild, finishing with a waterproof sealant. Learn more.
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Chase cover
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Chimney chase covers function similarly to concrete crowns, protecting the entirety of the chimney chase. Chase covers, often found on prefabricated or factory-built chimneys, are available in a variety of metals including stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. Our chase covers feature a water-tight, soldered pipe collar, a 2-1/2 inch hemmed lip, and a cross break that forms a slope to shed water. We can have them custom-made to fit any size or shape of chimney.
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Top-mounted damper
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A top-mounted damper, or top-sealing damper, is essentially a chimney cap and a damper in one. As opposed to a throat damper, located above the firebox, a top-mounted damper seals the chimney from the top, with a chain connected to a handle that allows for easy opening and closing from below. We use the Chim-A-Lator brand.
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Chimney cap
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A chimney cap covers only the chimney (usually fireplace) flue. They are also sometimes referred to as rain caps or spark arrestors. Caps prevent water and animals from entering the flue, as well as preventing burning embers from exiting the flue and causing a roof fire. They are available in a variety of materials, including aluminum, stainless steel, and copper, and in styles that range from simple to elegant.
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Flue cap
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Utility flue caps, such as this type B gas vent cap, cover only the flue of the appliance. They serve to allow for the safe venting of gases from gas furnaces, gas fireplaces, boilers, and water heaters, while also preventing the entry of water, animals, and debris.
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Free estimate + consultChimney repair can be a major expense, and the quality of workmanship has a direct impact on your home's safety and value. We know you want to get it right. Our estimate + consult is designed to give you the tools you need to make an informed decision about your chimney repair project.
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