Caps vs. Crowns vs. Covers
Water is a significant threat to the chimney. Once it infiltrates the structure, it can cause severe damage and even lead to its collapse. Whether you have a masonry chimney or a manufactured fireplace, the urgency of preventing water from entering the stack cannot be overstated. In a region like the Lehigh Valley, where heavy precipitation is typical, chimney caps, crowns, and covers are essential for protecting against water intrusion and ensuring the longevity of your chimney.
Understanding the Key Components
From the heavy snows of winter to the sudden downpours of summer, the elements pose a significant threat to the integrity of your chimney. Protecting this vital structure, particularly its vulnerable top, is crucial, where chimney caps, crowns, and covers come into play.
Chimney Cap
A chimney cap is a metal component that is like a roof for the flue. Its primary function is to prevent rain, snow, and debris from entering the flue. It should have a mesh screen to keep animals and debris from getting in while allowing smoke and gases to escape. In the Lehigh Valley, where wildlife is abundant, a sturdy cap is vital to prevent animals from nesting in the flue. It also helps to deflect moisture away from the crown.
Flue Cap
Unlike a chimney cap, which also protects the crown, a flue cap only covers the open flue pipe, protecting against water, animal, and debris intrusion while venting smoke and exhaust.
Chimney Crown
The chimney crown is a concrete slab that covers the top of the chimney with an overhang and a drip edge. When properly constructed, it sheds water away from the chimney’s masonry, preventing it from seeping into the brick-and-mortar. The Lehigh Valley’s freeze/thaw cycles and snow accumulation can cause cracks in the crown. A well-fitted chimney cap that covers the width of the chimney provides an additional layer of protection for the vulnerable crown.
Chase Cover
A chase cover is a metal cover primarily installed with prefabricated or factory-built chimneys that deflect water from the siding. Unlike a crown made of masonry, a chase cover is typically fabricated from steel, aluminum, or copper and includes a cap. It protects the entire top of the chase from water damage and animal intrusion, preventing rot and corrosion of the structure.
Our certified technicians offer expert chimney inspections, repairs, rebuilding, and installations, protecting your chimney against the elements. Whether you need a new chimney cap, crown repair, or chase cover, Wells & Sons provides the expertise and reliable service.
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Wells & Sons: Pro Chimney Repairs
Wells & Sons is Southeastern Pennsylvania’s trusted provider of chimney and fireplace services. In addition to certified chimney inspections, our expert technicians provide expert crown repairs, rebuilding, and installations of caps and covers for masonry and prefabricated chimneys.
We are a family-owned and locally operated business, proudly serving the Lehigh Valley, including Bethlehem, Harwick, King of Prussia, and Warrington. Contact us to book your appointment today and experience our commitment to local homeowners.
