What is a Chimney Crown and Why Is It Important?
A fireplace and chimney have many different parts. All are important in their own right. A chimney crown is an essential part of the makeup of a chimney. It is important because it helps to prolong the life of your chimney. A crown protects your chimney from water damage. A well-maintained chimney crown can also protect your home from fire. Without the proper installation and maintenance, ice, rain, sleet or snow can seep into the flue, which may lead to dangerous gasses that may leak into your home.
Moisture can lead to the disruption of mortar and bricks. This can deteriorate the chimney and lead to structural instability. If not corrected it may lead to very costly repairs. The crown is made of cement, either flat or domed in shape. If the crown gets a crack, water can enter and cause leakage into the chimney. Keeping up with repairs of the chimney crown will prolong the life of your chimney.
What is The Job of the Chimney Crown?
The primary role of the chimney crown is to keep water from entering the chimney. It is often called the first line of defense. If the crown is damaged it can cause the chimney to leak. If not corrected in due time, this may cause the breakdown of masonry. The breakdown of masonry may lead to structural damage which may lead to very costly repairs.
Preventing Damage from Water
The chimney crown sits on top of the chimney. Protecting from water entering the chimney. This protects the chimney from water damage. The chimney crown hangs over the side of the chimney. This allows the water to flow away from the chimney. The overhand is called a kerf. The kerf hangs about 2- 2.5 inches over the end of the crown.
Keeps Critters Out
Being at the top of the chimney the crown is a deterrent to small animals. This time of the year critters are looking for a warm place to sleep and nest.
The Chimney Crown Experts
Our professionals at Felgemacher are here to help. We will be happy to discuss any concerns that you may have. We have professionals to help repair and replace chimney crowns that have been damaged by weather or just from age. Our team of technicians is experienced in anything chimney. Hope to talk with you soon.
Our owners are certified through the Chimney Safety Institute of America – a stringent industry certification held by only the best sweeps in the U.S. We remove flammable creosote from chimney flues, reducing the chance of a chimney fire. We also remove debris and obstructions that could hamper the drafting of smoke and carbon monoxide. We’ve been helping folks throughout the Buffalo NY and Rochester NY areas get the most out of their fireplace inserts, stoves, and chimneys for more than 60 years. When specialized chimney service is required, count on us for the best in chimney sweep, chimney repair, chimney rebuilding and chimney inspection.