Chimney cap: what it is needed for, types, which one is better

In chimneys can fall leaves, debris, insects and even birds. Also, moisture forms in them, because of which their upper part dampens. This leads to rapid destruction of the material, to the formation of mold. Therefore, protective caps are installed on the chimneys. Consider the types of caps for the chimney. Which one is better to choose?

How the chimney cap works

The air flow collides with the top of the cone-shaped cap. Because of this, it is dispersed and does not penetrate the chimney. There are designs of chimney caps that do not let the draft disappear and increase it. Such a chimney cap rotates and creates a swirl. It is installed on bearings with anti-corrosion protection. In winter, it is watched so that no ice forms, blocking its movement. Also, the cap for the chimney drains moisture down the gutters.

Types of chimney caps

Chimney caps for chimneys differ in the material of manufacture. Copper chimney caps are durable. Over time, products made of this material are covered with patina and look vintage and original.

Caps on chimneys made of steel are cheaper than copper models. However, they last about 10 years. Stainless steel chimney caps are usable for about 20 years. They withstand difficult environmental conditions, strong heat, marine climate with moist salty air. Of the disadvantages, it can be noted that stainless steel loses its luster. Most often caps on chimneys are made of a metal alloy of zinc and titanium. Products made of this material are very durable, serve more than 50 years.

Caps on the chimneys are with artistic design. Often they are made of hardened iron. They are also installed on fireplaces. They consist of three parts:

• The base of the chimney.
• A screen that protects from sparks.
• A cover that covers the chimney from rain.

Forged cap on the chimney is durable, it withstands temperature fluctuations and is resistant to corrosion. The main advantage of such a cap on the chimney is the decoration of the chimney and roof. Forging makes it an original decorative element that attracts attention.

The shape of chimney caps for chimneys is different:

• The standard model is made in the form of a house with a roof with four slopes.
• The chimney cap of the modern design has a flat plate on top of the roof.
• Four-pitched chimney cap with spokes is well ventilated and protects the chimney from snow.
• There are models with a weathervane.
• Two-tiered caps on the chimney strengthen the draught.

The shape of the chimney cap can be gable, four-slope, semi-cylindrical, flat. Some models have an opening cover. It makes it easier to clean the chimney.

What cap on the chimney is better

Which cap for the chimney is better depends on several factors:

• What type of heating is used. If a gas boiler is installed, the chimney cap should be in the form of an open-top nozzle. In houses where a solid fuel boiler is used, you can install a chimney cap of any shape.
• The structure of the chimney. Often the pipes consist of three layers and are made of modular sandwich panels. Then there is no need for protection from precipitation. In such a pipe, moisture accumulates in the condensate collector. On a brick chimney with a solid fuel system, any cap can be installed.
• The design of the cap for the chimney. When there are no special requirements for the shape of the chimney cap, it is chosen in accordance with the general design of the roof of the house. If the fence is made of forging, it will be appropriate to install a wrought iron chimney cap with decorations.

You can choose a cap on the chimney from a reliable durable material. Also pay attention to the reviews of the company-manufacturer. You can read on the Internet the opinion of users about a particular model of chimney cap to learn its advantages and disadvantages.