If you have a fireplace in your home, the care and maintenance of your chimney should be of utmost importance to you. One thing that you’ll need to know about is your chimney cap and how to choose the right one for your chimney. Here are 4 different types that you can choose from and how you can know if it is the right option for you:
StandardThe standard chimney cap is advantageous because it has a side screening that prevents animals from nesting in your chimney. It can also stop sparks from getting into your yard and starting a fire, and it increases the draft during windy weather.
Draft Increasing
If your chimney is short or too wide, it will struggle to get air to your fire to keep it burning for as long as you want it. Other factors that can cause problems include the location of your chimney and the construction of it. If your chimney has draft problems, you should find a chimney cap that helps solve your draft problems. These caps utilize the wind to create stronger updrafts in your chimney.
Single Flue
If your chimney crown is a square or rectangle, you should use a single-flue chimney cap. This is especially advantageous if the flue is above the chimney crown. Single-flue caps are easy to install by screwing them into the flue.
Top Mount
The flue should be at least an inch higher than the chimney crown to use the top-mount cap. The top-mount chimney cap attaches to the chimney with a spout that should be connected to the crown. Then, you’ll need special adhesive or Tapcon screws to keep it in place.
If you need help determining the right chimney caps for your home, contact a professional who can come out and replace it for you. He or she can also take the time to clean out your flue to prevent any fires and keep your home safe.