Shim Your Chase Pan Cover?

A chase pan, or chimney cover, is a square or rectangular piece of metal that sits on top of a chimney to protect it from water damage and other environmental elements. Chase covers are an important part of chimney maintenance, as they prevent water from entering the chimney and causing damage to the interior flue system. They also help to keep animals and insects out. If you have a wood-framed chimney, you will need a chase cover to ensure the top of the chimney is watertight.

The importance of regular chimney inspections

Chimney inspections are a vital part of home maintenance, offering a range of benefits that ensure the safety and efficiency of your chimney system. Here are some key reasons why regular chimney inspections are important:

Fire Prevention

One of the primary reasons for chimney inspections is to prevent chimney fires. Over time, creosote, a highly flammable substance, can accumulate in the chimney lining. If left unchecked, this creosote can ignite, leading to a dangerous chimney fire that may spread to other areas of your house. Regular inspections help identify and remove this buildup, reducing the risk of fire hazards.

Carbon Monoxide Detection

Chimneys play a critical role in venting out harmful gases, including carbon monoxide, produced by fireplaces and heating appliances. A malfunctioning or blocked chimney can trap these gases inside your home, posing a severe health threat. Regular inspections ensure the chimney is clear of obstructions and that proper ventilation occurs, preventing the buildup of carbon monoxide and maintaining safe indoor air quality.

Identification of Structural Issues

Chimneys can develop structural problems such as cracks, leaks, or loose bricks over time. These issues can compromise the stability and integrity of the chimney, making it more prone to collapse or water damage. Regular inspections help detect these problems early, allowing for timely repairs and preventing potential disasters.

Prevent Animal Intrusions

Chimneys can become a haven for birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other animals seeking shelter. Nesting materials, debris, and animal droppings can obstruct the chimney, hindering its proper functioning. Inspections help identify and remove any signs of animal activity, ensuring the chimney remains clear and functional.

Energy Efficiency

A damaged chimney can lead to the escape of heated air from your home, resulting in higher energy costs as your heating system works harder to maintain the desired temperature. Regular chimney inspections and maintenance ensure that your chimney is functioning efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.

Compliance with Insurance Requirements

Many homeowners' insurance policies require regular chimney inspections as a condition of coverage for chimney-related incidents. By scheduling routine inspections, you can fulfill these requirements and ensure that your insurance policy remains valid in the event of a claim.

Peace of Mind

Regular chimney inspections provide peace of mind, knowing that your chimney is safe, efficient, and in good working condition. They help identify potential issues early, allowing for prompt repairs and reducing the risk of more extensive damage and costly repairs in the future.

In summary, regular chimney inspections are crucial for maintaining the safety, functionality, and longevity of your chimney system. By investing in routine inspections, you can identify and address potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for you and your loved ones.

The consequences of neglecting your chimney chase cover

The chimney chase cover, also known as the chase pan, is a crucial component of a chimney. It is a square or rectangular piece of metal that is fitted to sit securely on top of the chimney chase, protecting it from water and other environmental elements.

Neglecting to maintain your chimney chase cover can have several consequences, including:

Water Damage

The primary purpose of a chase cover is to keep water out. If the cover is damaged or neglected, water can seep through cracks or gaps, leading to water damage inside the chimney and your home. This can cause stains, mould growth, and even structural issues.

Rust and Corrosion

Water buildup on the chase cover can lead to rust and corrosion. Rust stains on the chimney are an indication of a leaking or improperly installed chase cover. Over time, rust can cause the cover to break, allowing water to enter the chimney and potentially causing significant damage.

Animal Intrusion

A damaged or neglected chase cover can provide an entry point for animals such as birds, squirrels, raccoons, and bats. These animals can create nests, leave droppings, and potentially enter your home, creating health and safety concerns.

Backdrafts and Fire Hazards

Damage and neglect can lead to backdrafts in the chimney, which can put out the fire and force smoke back into your home. Additionally, a chase cover helps prevent roof fires by containing sparks from the fireplace. A neglected cover may not effectively contain these sparks, increasing the risk of a fire.

Decreased Energy Efficiency

Leaks or gaps in the chase cover can affect the energy efficiency of your home. Air can escape through these openings, leading to higher energy bills.

Chimney Flute, Roof, and Home Damage

Neglecting the chase cover can result in damage to the chimney flute, roof, and even the structure of your home. The exterior damage to the chimney can lead to interior damage, affecting the flue system, fireplace, and potentially the house itself.

Therefore, it is essential to have regular inspections and maintenance performed by a certified chimney sweep to ensure the proper functioning and longevity of your chimney chase cover.

The different types of chimney chase covers

Chimney chase covers are available in various materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The four most common types of chimney chase covers are aluminium, stainless steel, galvanized steel, and copper.

Aluminium chimney chase covers are known for their resistance to rust, which is a crucial factor in the product's longevity. However, aluminium is a relatively soft metal, making it less durable against harsh weather conditions. Additionally, aluminium may not be readily available in the required sizes, making it a less practical choice.

Stainless steel is widely regarded as the most robust and reliable option for chimney chase covers. It is incredibly durable, especially in areas with challenging weather conditions. The main drawback of stainless steel is its higher cost compared to other materials. Nevertheless, its long-lasting nature often makes it a worthwhile investment.

Galvanized steel is the most economical option and is ideal for quick replacements. However, it is prone to rust and may need to be replaced within a few years. While it can be a short-term solution, it may not be the best choice for long-term use.

Copper is considered the highest quality material for chimney chase covers, and its copper shade adds a visually appealing touch. However, it is typically the most expensive option and is usually chosen for very high-end houses.

It is important to note that the choice of material depends on individual preferences, budget, and specific requirements. Each material has its advantages and drawbacks, and it is essential to understand them before making a decision.

The benefits of a chimney chase cover

A chimney chase cover is a metal covering that fits over the top of a chimney to keep out water, debris, and animals. Chase covers are not for masonry chimneys but are instead for the boxes (chases) that house a factory-built chimney.

Waterproofing

The main purpose of a chimney chase cover is to waterproof the top of a chimney. The cover is usually made of metal and slopes at the sides to allow water to run off and away from the chimney. This prevents water damage, which can cause cracked bricks, missing mortar, and crumbling brick.

Protection from the Elements

A chimney chase cover also protects the chimney from other environmental elements such as wind, rain, sleet, and snow. This helps to maintain the chimney crown and keep it from deteriorating.

Increased Home Value

Replacing an old or rusty chimney chase cover with a new one, such as a stainless steel cover, can increase the value of your home. During the home-selling process, a home inspector will typically evaluate and inspect the chimney, and a well-maintained chimney cover will reflect well on the inspection report.

Prevent Animal Intrusion

A chimney chase cover also prevents animals like birds, bats, and other species from building nests inside the chimney.

Easy Installation

Installing a chimney chase cover is generally a straightforward process, and many companies provide detailed instructional resources, such as installation videos and measuring guides, to ensure a perfect fit.

Overall, a chimney chase cover is an essential component of a chimney to protect it from water damage, maintain its structure, and increase the value of your home.

The average cost of a chimney chase cover

The cost of a chimney chase cover depends on the material used, with copper being the most expensive option, followed by stainless steel, and galvanized steel being the most affordable but requiring early replacement due to rusting. Aluminum is also an option but is generally too soft for the purpose and not readily available in the necessary sizes.

When buying a chimney chase cover, it is important to ensure that it is made to exact specifications for a perfect fit. This includes allowing for a small amount of extra space around the edges and spacing it off the chase to allow for ventilation. Cross-breaks are also essential to prevent the cover from catering and collecting water.

While it is possible to install a chimney chase cover yourself, it is recommended that it be done by a professional.

Frequently asked questions