The Role of Chimney Caps in Winter Weather
The harsh winters can be brutal on your home and your chimney in particular. Snow thrashing upon your chimney and roof can be devastating to the structure as well. There are options for you to prevent and avoid some damages that winter brings on. We will talk about protecting the chimney today. Rain and snow going into your chimney can be detrimental to the chimney. Also, to your walls, decor, and roof. A chimney cap may be the answer you are looking for.
What is a Chimney Cap?
A chimney cap is a covering over your chimney. It sits on top of your chimney above the chimney crown. The chimney cap serves many different purposes. A chimney cap is usually made of stainless steel for its durability and strength. Best to stand up to harsh weather. There is a mesh ring that the cap sits on. The mesh is often made of copper.
Benefits of a Chimney Cap
Protection From Rain and Snow
The cap forms like an umbrella over your chimney opening. Rain and snow are diverted away from the chimney keeping it dry.
Keep Critters Out
Small animals will find their way into your chimney. This may happen during the winter as they are looking for shelter. You may encounter small animals like squirrels, birds, or other rodents. Whether it is for warmth or to find a place of protection. If animals are not kept out of your chimney you may find that you have a larger problem. They may get stuck and cannot escape and die in your chimney. This will cause more of an issue as you would have to call a professional in to extract the remains.
Keeping the Chimney Clear
As leaves fall and the winds gust, you will find that debris will find its way into your chimney.
Keeping Ash from Leaving the Chimney
To avoid a roof fire, the Chimney Cap protects the outside of your home. The cap will prevent any ash that might rise up the chimney.
Maintenance Needed
There is some maintenance needed if you have a Chimney Cap. As mentioned, the Chimney Cap is on top of a mesh ring. The mesh has holes in it for ventilation. When the wind blows and leaves and debris start to fly, often flying debris gets caught up in the mesh and can clog it.
It is recommended not to use paper as a fire starter. Paper tends to burn with ash debris. When burning fire and ash flows up the chimney, it may get stuck in the mesh, causing a blockage as well. This may lead to a chimney fire.
Contact Chimney Solutions of Indiana to clean out your chimney as well as around the cap.
Our team can help clean up your chimney so that none of these problems affect your home. Would you like to get in touch with our team to schedule an appointment? Then contact Chimney Solutions Indiana by calling (317) 757-6979 or get in touch with us with our online contact form.
