Invest in a New Chase Cover for Your Home in Killeen, Temple, or Anywhere Nearby
As a home or business owner, one of the biggest priorities is making sure your home stays safer – and if your home has a fireplace that means investing in components that keep it structurally sound. That’s why, if you need a new chimney chase cover for your home in Killeen, Temple, or any area surrounding, reaching out to our crew right away is a must.
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What Is a Chimney Chase Cover? What Is Its Purpose?
If you know what a concrete chimney crown is, then a chase cover is essentially a metal version of this. Mostly used for prefabricated chimneys (though masonry ones have started utilizing them too), it sits at the top of a chimney chase and works to prevent water and outside debris from entering. Its sloped design also helps to send water out and away from the sides of the chase.
Chase covers can even act as a barrier against animal invasion – think birds, squirrels, woodland critters… – that may try to enter the chimney chase and nest inside of it.
All in all, a well-fitted and properly built chase cover not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your chimney, but also plays a vital role in safeguarding your flue (and, by relation, your home) from the elements. Whether you’re looking to replace an old chase cover or install one for the first time, we can help you out.
How Does a Chimney Chase Cover Differ From a Chimney Cap?
Both chimney chase covers and chimney caps sit at the top of the chimney structure, both are made of metal, and both serve protective roles…but their purposes are, in fact, different.
A chase cover sits on top of the chimney chase, covering it from corner to corner with a hole in the top (for the chimney cap), thus effectively sealing it off from the elements and preventing water intrusion.
A chimney cap is placed on the top of the chimney flue and includes a mesh screen to keep animals and weather elements from entering…while still allowing smoke and gases to escape.
Every chimney – whether masonry or factory-built – needs a chimney cap. All prefabricated chimneys need a chase cover. And, as for chimney crowns, all masonry systems should have one (unless the homeowner opts for a metal chase cover instead).
Why Is It Important To Have a Properly Fitted Chase Cover?
Having a properly fitted chimney chase cover is crucial for several reasons – and it’s these reasons why we discourage any DIY chase cover installation attempts:
- Moisture Prevention: A well-fitted cover will create a watertight seal, preventing rain, snow, and ice from entering the chase. Water intrusion can lead to rust, rot, and other forms of water damage, so this is important!
- Reduced Risk of Blockages: A proper fit ensures that the chase cover effectively keeps out pests and debris, thus maintaining the integrity of the chimney structure – and reducing the risk of blockages or other issues.
- More Energy Efficiency: A correctly installed chase cover can help improve the energy efficiency of your heating system. It prevents heat loss and minimizes the risk of experiencing cold downdrafts in the home.
- Home Safety: An ill-fitting or missing chase cover can pose safety risks, as the more vulnerable your system is from the top, the more likely interior damage is to occur. And more damage means a higher risk of fire hazards and gas leaks.
- System Longevity: A properly fitted chase cover will protect your chimney and chase from damage, prolonging the lifespan of your chimney system and reducing the need for costly repairs down the line.
Can I Install a Chase Cover Myself, or Should I Hire a Professional?
Going off the question above, we always recommend hiring a professional chimney technician for any chimney repair or installation needs. In addition to the chimney above concerns, there’s your own personal safety to keep in mind, as well. Working on a roof can be dangerous, and professionals are trained in proper safety protocols and have the necessary equipment to complete the job safely.
A professional can also help you choose the right materials and design for your specific chimney and roof type, ensuring compatibility and effectiveness. And if they notice anything else amiss while they’re up there, they can bring it to your attention and suggest follow-up repair services.
Not to mention, if your chase cover falls under a warranty, this often only remains valid if installation (and any follow-up services) are completed by a certified technician.
All in all, chimney industry professionals have experience and knowledge of chimney systems, ensuring that the chase cover is installed correctly for optimal performance and safety. Isn’t that peace of mind worth it?
Are There Signs That My Chimney Chase Cover Needs To Be Repaired or Replaced?
As a homeowner, knowing what issues around your home need swift attention is a must for keeping everyone inside safer and more comfortable. For example, you’d want to quickly replace worn weatherstripping to avoid drafts, and you definitely need to address malfunctioning/exposed wiring to reduce any risk of hazards.
Well, the same goes for your chimney and its components. So, how do you know when it’s time to repair or replace your chase cover? Fortunately, there are some telltale indicators that can help you catch problems early – before they lead to costly damage:
- Rust or corrosion throughout the metal
- Water stains on the walls near the chimney
- Cracks or gaps in the chase cover
- Debris (leaves, twigs, etc.) inside the chimney chase
- Leaking or puddles inside the firebox area
- Signs of animals nesting in or around your chimney
- Any visible deterioration (like being bent or dented)
If you notice any of these signs, call us in! We’d be happy to look things over and offer repairs (if possible) or a replacement.
Improve Your Home’s Defenses With a New Chase Cover
A new chimney chase cover is more than just a decorative feature to complete the look of your chimney – it’s an essential component of your home, working as a strong defense against moisture, pests, and the wear and tear of time.
By investing in a quality chase cover, you’re ensuring the safety and longevity of your chimney system, ultimately protecting your home’s value. If you live in Killeen, Temple, or any city nearby, don’t wait until you notice signs of damage or deterioration. Reach out to our team today to schedule an inspection to ensure everything is in tip-top shape.
Our fireplace and chimney repair experts can quickly determine if your system needs chimney top repair to restore it to peak performance and safe operation.