Chimney Chase Problems and When to Replace
When homeowners look over their chimney to determine if it requires maintenance, they often miss the chase cover. If this is the case, it could result in unsightly and costly damage to the home.
What Is a Chimney Chase Cover?
A chase cover is a metal cover that fits over a chimney chase to prevent water, debris, and animals from entering the chimney. They are found on pre-fabricated or factory built fireplaces and made from numerous materials.
- Galvanized Steel: This is the lowest costing material for a chase cover and for good reason. They are prone to rusting rather quickly and will need to be replaced soon after installation.
- Aluminum: This type of chimney chase will not rust, but it tends to be too soft. It is often not readily available making it less practical.
- Stainless Steel: This is the preferred type of material for a chase cover as it lasts practically forever and is a reasonable cost.
- Copper: The top quality choice for a chase cover; however, the price reflects this. Typically only very expensive homes will require this material.
Is It Time to Replace?
When a chimney chase cover has been improperly installed or made out of cheap materials, it could require replacing in as little as five years. Unfortunately, chimney chase covers are harder to detect decay; however, there are two main signs that could signal it is time to upgrade.
- Rust stains leaking down the side of the chimney.
- Water leaks inside the chase and soaks into wood or drywall – can be mistaken for a leaky roof.
Resources: Black Goose Chimney, High’s Chimney Service, Doctor Flue, Clean Sweeps
Wells & Sons provides chimney sweep services to the Gilbertsville, Boyertown, Pottstown, Allentown, Reading, and surrounding Pennsylvania areas. Services include chimney repair and chimney cleaning. Wells & Sons is also a full service masonry contractor company.
