Understanding the parts of your chimney and their respective functions allows you to properly maintain the entire system. One important component you should know about is the chase cover or chase pan. It is the square or rectangular piece of metal that is fitted on top of your chimney chase.
Batts’ Chimney Services, your trusted provider of chimney inspections and maintenance, explains everything you need to know about the chimney chase cover and why you need one for your home.
What Are Chimney Chase Covers?
A chimney chase cover seals off your chimney chase to prevent water and debris from entering the structure. It is required for all prefabricated fireplaces such as wood, vinyl or metal. However, because it is exposed to plenty of sunlight, windstorms and all kinds of weather, a chimney chase cover may wear down eventually. If not installed properly, it may cause rust stains on the chimney and leave you with water damage and other issues that may threaten the efficiency of your fireplace.
For this reason, it’s important to have a chimney professional perform routine chimney inspections. An expert will examine your chimney system and make sure everything is in working order.
Differentiating Chase Covers and Chimney Caps
Many homeowners confuse chase covers with chimney caps and even use the two terms interchangeably. However, they are two different parts. While both chase covers and chimney caps play an integral role in protecting your interior chimney system from moisture damage, chimney caps also help in keeping out birds and other animals. This means that you don’t have to think about excrement and other animal byproducts clogging your chimney flue and causing a fire. In addition to that, chimney caps prevent downdrafts and stop stray sparks from landing on your roof.
During your annual inspection, a chimney expert will also check your chimney cap for any signs of damage. Keep in mind that the chimney cap can be affected by storms, which may decrease its overall efficiency.
Looking for chimney experts? Get in touch with Batts’ Chimney Services. For Jefferson County homeowners, call us at (205) 956-8207, while Northeast Alabama homeowners can reach us at (256) 660-1338. You may also fill out our online contact form to request an appointment.
