A metal chimney cap and a concrete chimney crown are two important features of the fireplace system. While the layperson usually has only a very peripheral understanding of what is going on in the chimney network, knowledge can come with power.
Understanding your chimney caps and crowns can help you maintain them properly, and recognize issues quickly when they pop up.
In this article, we examine the difference between chimney caps and crowns and equip you with a more general understanding of your entire chimney system.
Chimney Caps
Chimney caps are distinct features of your fireplace network, located on the roof. They play an important, distinct role in keeping your fireplace functioning, and can even have implications for the wellness of your home.
What Is a Chimney Cap?
A metal chimney cap is a covering that goes on top of the chimney. Do a scan of the chimneys in your neighborhood, and you’re sure to notice this important though visually unremarkable feature doing its good work.
What Does A Chimney Cap Do?
The function of a metal chimney cap is pretty simple and straightforward: to keep things from entering your fireplace. Homeowners spend lots of time and attention keeping things from entering you’re their house. They close windows, lock doors. And leave a big hole open on top of their roof?
That’s what would happen without a metal chimney cap. While the gap would be too small and impractical for a human intruder, it could let in animals, weather, and lots of dirt and grime. You don’t want that.
Types of Chimney Caps
There are different types of chimney caps. Metal chimney caps have recently grown in popularity because they are visually appealing and can last for a very long time.
Metal Chimney Caps
Metal chimney caps didn’t use to be the standard, but have grown significantly in their appeal, thanks mostly to their moderate price tag and their impressive performance. As you might expect, metal chimney caps are extremely durable, and can last for a long time with little maintenance.
Chimney Crowns
A concrete chimney crown is a very important part of any functioning chimney.
What Is a Chimney Crown?
Concrete chimney crowns go on top of your chimney system.
What Does a Chimney Crown Do?
Like the chimney cap, a concrete chimney crown is there to help keep moisture and other outside contaminants from infiltrating your home. It’s an important element of maintaining a safe, structurally sound fireplace network.
Concrete Chimney Crowns
Concrete tends to be the standard for chimney crowns because it is very durable, relatively easy to repair, and because it can last for a long time.
So What’s The Difference?
So, what’s the difference? While these two elements of the chimney may sound the same, they actually play a unique, though equally important role in keeping your chimney safe and functional.
Chimney Cap vs. Crown
The chimney crown is usually a slab that goes around the opening of your chimney, while the crown goes on the very top. While they are doing more or less the same work, these features rely on one another to keep your home safe.
You may hear the terms “chimney cap,” and “chimney crown” used interchangeably by the layperson. However, they are distinct, and understanding the difference will make it easier to maintain your fireplace.
Something Looks Damaged… What Do I Do?
If something looks damaged on any part of your chimney system, it’s time to call in the pros. Maintenance and upkeep are important components of having a fireplace. By catching problems earlier, you can often avoid larger, more significant repairs.
Of course, you should always feel free to contact multiple professionals. The more quotes you get, the easier it will be to make an informed decision.
Signs of Crown Damage
You may identify chimney crown damage from the interior of your fireplace. If you notice swollen brickwork, falling chimney tiles, or moisture it is usually a sign that outside contaminants are getting in by way of the roof.
Signs of Cap Damage
Cap damage will resemble crown damage. Any time you notice evidence that exterior elements are creeping their way into your home, it’s a significant sign that there is damage to either the cap or crown on your chimney.
When that happens, it’s time to call in the professionals. The quicker you act, the more likely it is that you will be able to eliminate the problem before it snowballs.
So Which One Is Better?
When considering the question of chimney caps versus crowns, it’s not exactly a matter of which is better. It’s more about what’s right for your home. Professionals will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of both to help you make an informed decision.
Which One Fits Your Specs?
The question may ultimately come down to the specs on your chimney. Using this information, a professional will be able to select the feature most suitable for your home.
Durability
Chimney crowns are often viewed as the most durable of the two. However, with proper care and maintenance, both caps and crowns can last for decades.
Still curious about caps and crowns?
Want to learn more about caps and crowns? Chances are, we have the answer to all of your questions. Deciding between the two can be confusing, but with the right team and the proper tools, outfitting your chimney with the protection it needs will be simple and straightforward.
Interested in finding out more? Contact us now for a quote!
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