What is a Chimney Chase Cover and Why Do You Need One?
A chimney might seem pretty simple and straightforward, but it’s actually a complex structure that’s comprised of several different components that, like most homeowners, you probably aren’t aware of. The chimney chase cover is one of those components. Also referred to as a chase pan or simply a chimney cover, a chimney chase cover is a metal cap that sits on top of a chimney chase.
The purpose of a chimney chase cover is to protect the uppermost portion of a factory-built chimney. Unlike a chimney rain cap, which only covers the opening of the flu, a chase pan seals the peak of a chimney, yet allows the flue pipe to extend beyond the top of the structure. Prefab chimneys feature wide openings. The primary purpose of a chimney chase cover is waterproofing, as it prevents moisture from entering the opening; however, it also prevents other unwanted elements from entering the chimney, such as leaves, animals, and dirt. In other words, a chase pan is essential because it plays a key role in protecting your chimney – and your Twin Cities home.
Signs Your Chimney Chase Cover Needs to Be Replaced
Chimney chase covers are made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. While these materials are durable, they don’t last forever; the average life expectancy is 25 years. Constant exposure to harsh elements, such as direct sunlight, rain, snow, wind, dirt, and debris, can rust, corrode, and wear down a chimney cover. When a chase pan degrades, your chimney is subject to water intrusion, which can result in extensive damage. Additionally, debris, such as leaves and twigs, and even animals, can also enter your chimney.
To protect the structural integrity of your chimney and your Twin Cities home – and to avoid costly repairs – being aware of the signs that your chimney chase cover needs to be replaced is imperative. If you’re experiencing any of the following, contact a reputable company that specializes in chase pan replacement and installation, like Suburban Chimney Solutions, ASAP:
If you notice water leaking into your firebox or dampness on the firebox walls, that’s a major indicator that your chase pan is damaged.
Discoloration – reddish-brown spots in your firebox or on the chase cover itself – is a major warning sign of trouble.
If you’re having a hard time opening and closing your damper, that’s a sign that this essential feature is rusted. The cause of the rust could be the result of moisture intrusion linked to a damaged chimney chase cover.
The Twin Cities Chimney Chase Cover Experts
Whether you suspect your chimney chase cover needs to be replaced or you’re certain it does, contact the company that Minneapolis and Saint Paul homeowners trust for all of their chimney repairs: Suburban Chimney Solutions. Our family-owned, locally-operated company offers comprehensive chimney repair solutions, including chimney chase cover replacements and installations. Our team of fully licensed, insured, and certified technicians will perform a thorough assessment of your existing chimney cover, will provide you with a detailed summary of our findings, and will recommend the most efficient solutions. Our expert technicians will carefully remove your existing chase pan and will properly install a new, premium-quality, durably constructed chimney chase cover.
For efficient, durable, long-lasting, and affordably priced chimney chase cover replacement and installation services in the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area, look no further than Suburban Chimney Solutions. To request a free price quote, contact us today!
