There’s nothing like a cozy blaze in the fireplace to help you unwind and warm up on a cold winter’s day. But without a chimney cap, you might have some difficulty keeping a fire going safely. Here are four reasons to consider installing a guard. 

4 Benefits of Chimney Caps

1. Keep Animals Out

Many birds and rodents seek warm, sheltered spots to nest during the colder months can include chimneys. Without a cap, animals may make a home in your chimney and cause a disturbance. They can also damage the shingles and flashing of your roofing by pecking and scratching while trying to enter their nesting area.

Additionally, animals can fall into an uncapped chimney and may enter your home or get stuck in the shaft. Because some animals, such as rats, mice, and squirrels, carry diseases, this could jeopardize your family’s health. A chimney cap prevents animals from gaining access to the shaft. 

2. Guard Against Moisture

Water and fire don’t mix, so if rain or snow enters the open chimney, it can moisten logs and make it more challenging to start a fire. Water accumulation can also damage the chimney over time by degrading mortar. Chimney caps protect the chimney and fireplace from moisture by blocking rainfall and snow from entering the shaft so that you won’t have such issues. 

3. Prevent Downdrafts

A downdraft occurs when smoke fills the home when you stoke a roaring flame in the fireplace, which results from air flowing into the house through the chimney due to strong gusts of wind. Chimney caps reduce downdrafts by limiting the amount of outside air that flows in through the shaft.

4. Prevent Debris Buildup

Debris, such as leaves, twigs, and dirt, can enter the chimney and block smoke flow. This decreases the efficiency of wood and kindling in your fireplace because the blocked ventilation will require you to burn more fuel to produce a steady blaze. It can also increase the risk of indoor air pollution as smoke may be blocked from exiting properly and end up flowing back into the house. Fortunately, a chimney guard can keep debris out. 

 

If you’re interested in installing a chimney cap, turn to The Chimney Sweep. Located in Kernersville, NC, this local chimney maintenance and cleaning company was founded by former firefighter and Batallion Chief, Terry Osborne. He and his team are dedicated to keeping their customers safe and comfortable with a range of services to solve any chimney problem. Call (336) 993-8999 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule an appointment, or visit the website to learn more about how they can help you.