Springtime in the Shenandoah Valley can bring heavy rains to the area. In order to keep your masonry chimney safe from potential water penetration damage, it is important to make sure it is sufficiently protected. According to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA), the most economical way homeowners can prevent water penetration of their masonry chimneys is to have a chimney cap professionally installed at the top. For years, we have provided with dependable and top quality professional chimney services. We specialize in preventing leaky chimneys with a variety of different options, including chimney cap sales and installation. We would like to tell you more about why a chimney cap is so important.
STOPS WATER FROM ENTERING THE CHIMNEY
Without a chimney cap professionally installed on the top of your chimney, there is an open hole on your roof that allows water from rain and melted ice and snow to easily fall down into your home through the flue. A chimney cap is necessary to protect your home from the expensive and extensive damage that water penetration can cause. Chimney caps do such an effective job of keeping water out that Underwriters Laboratories (UL) requires that any standard chimney lining system must include a chimney cap.
KEEP WILD ANIMALS OUT OF THE CHIMNEY
Chimney caps also prevent birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other wild animals from entering the chimney for shelter. Therefore, equip your chimney cap with mesh metal sides. The mesh also serves another purpose by reducing your accidental fire risk. It stops hot sparks and embers from jumping out of the top of the chimney.
IMPROVES DRAFT PERFORMANCE
If you have issues with starting fires or smoke blowback, we offer models designed to help your chimney properly draft. Some caps have special side vents that direct the wind into and out of the chimney so that it can draft and properly exhaust.
Is your chimney uncapped, or has it been years since you installed your existing cap? Contact us today at Blue Ridge Chimney Services to schedule an appointment for our professional chimney cap sales and installation services. We properly protect your chimney from the heavy rains of spring and summer.