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Fireplace Chimney Caps

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Fireplace Chimney Caps

Fireplace chimney caps offer a layer of protection for the brick, stone, masonry and mortar that make up a chimney. While shingles or other roofing materials protect the rest of your house, an uncovered chimney remains constantly exposed to the elements. The best way to remedy the potential for damage to your chimney is to install a cap or cover on the flue of your chimney.

Uncovered chimneys are exposed to precipitation and wind. Water damage is especially cruel to brick work. The mortar between the bricks is often the first thing to go. It will crumble and then the rest of the brick or stone structure of the chimney is compromised. Older homes that have had exposed chimneys for decades often have a damaged chimney. The repairs for damage such as this can be costly. It is best to prevent chimney damage by installing fireplace chimney caps. If your chimney is already damaged, be sure to install a cap once the repairs are completed, in order to avoid additional problems.

The freeze and thaw cycles of many winters can be especially hard on chimneys. It’s important to inspect your chimney for any damages after each cold season. Chimney care and maintenance is just another item on the to-do list of a homeowner. You will also need to clean out your chimney on a yearly basis. It’s just as important as making sure your roof is in good condition. A fireplace chimney cap will lessen damage to your chimney.

Mortar made from lime can decay and crumble over time. If you are DIY inclined, you may opt to fix it yourself. Small cracks in the masonry can be fixed with the simple repair of masonry caulking.

Crumbling mortar will require something a little more involved. You will need to prepare some new mortar from a mix and apply it to the bricks. This process is more involved than simply caulking some cracks, but it is a chimney maintenance process that can prolong the life your chimney, and keep it retain watertight for years to come. If you choose to apply new mortar yourself, you should become familiar with the process if you are not already. For drainage purposes, it is important to angle the mortar away from the chimney. Mortar also requires that it be kept damp for a certain amount of time. Consult directions on your mortar mix for specific details.

When you cover your chimney, you prevent the dispersal of small sparks into the air. Often, there are tiny embers or sparks that escape from the fireplace. Fireplace chimney caps prevent these from escaping into the air. By keeping all sparks contained, you will dramatically lessen the risk of fire. Protect your home and surrounding structures from fire with a cover for your fireplace flue.

When you take care of your chimney, you protect it from damage from the elements and from sparks that could spread fire. This is a vital task of maintaining a home with a fireplace. Keeping your chimney safe with fireplace chimney caps is the best option to prevent chimney problems.

 

 

 

 

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