Thanks to Clean Sweep for this episode of Tips from the Pros about chimney caps.

If you’re a homeowner, there is a good chance that you have heard how valuable a chimney cap is. It is vital to the short-term and long-term integrity of your chimney. Even though your chimney might seem strong and able to endure years of harsh weather and wildlife activity, installing a chimney cap can fortify it even more.

Chimney Cap 101

Chimney caps are installed at the very top of your chimney above the crown. They help to stop rain, snow and animals from being able to enter the chimney. Without a chimney cap, your flue carries smoke out and also allows rain and animals in. When moisture enters your chimney, it can cause internal structural damage by degrading the bricks and mortar. Over time this will weaken the structure of your fireplace and can also lead to rust on the dampers, damage to the firebox and crack the flue.

The Other Benefits of a Chimney Cap

• Keep Out Wildlife: Raccoons, squirrels and birds are always looking for a safe place to live, and a chimney is very appealing. Tragically, many animals that enter chimneys to find a safe place to stay cannot get back out, and they end up dying in the chimney.
• Prevent Downdrafts: Downdrafts can be very hazardous for your home and a serious fire risk. Whenever the wind blows sharply in one direction outside of your home, it can cause a downdraft back into your fireplace that forces smoke into your home. Chimney caps are designed to prevent wind-related downdrafts.
• Prevent Embers and Sparks from Getting Out: Chimney caps also protect your roof from embers and sparks leaving the top and potentially settling on flammable material. While the risk is low of this occurring, the property damage in the aftermath can be catastrophic.
• Eliminate Debris Build-Up: Twigs, yard waste, branches and leaves can all enter your chimney and accumulate if there isn’t a chimney cap on top of your chimney.

Clean Sweep Is Here to Help!

Call Clean Sweep Maryland today at 410-558-1111. We have professional chimney sweep, slate roofing and duct cleaning services. We help keep all of your properties clean and safe.

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