DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE CHIMNEY CAP VS CHIMNEY CROWN

Chimney caps play an important role in heating systems as well as in maintaining safety and efficiency in either businesses or homes. Despite the importance of chimneys, many people do not know their various components and what they do. The chimney cap and crown are two crucial elements that protect your chimney and your home or business. 

To help homeowners and business owners understand the importance of these two parts to chimney maintenance, each is described as:

CHIMNEY CAP

A masonry or metal structure is placed on top of the chimney flue called a chimney cap. It can also be referred to as a chimney cover or chimney top. It’s main purpose is to: 

• Prevent Debris Entry: These caps have mesh sides or solid covers purposefully made to prevent objects like leaves, twigs, and animals from getting inside the chimney flue. 

• Prevent Moisture Entry: The hole of the brickwork could be covered by putting on chimney caps in order to prevent moisture, snow, and rain from entering into the flue. When moisture penetrates through this, water damage happens within buildings leading to internal problems with bricks and mortar along with structural degradation. 

• Avoid Downdrafts: Chimney caps are designed in such a way that reduces downdrafts, which occur when there’s wind blowing down a chimney bringing smoke and other pollutants into a home or business.

• Prevent Animal Intrusions: Creatures such as birds, squirrels, and other small creatures that would try to make a nest inside the chimney are deterred by the chimney caps with mesh sides. Animal nests can block airflow, start fires, and even cause a buildup of carbon monoxide in the house. 

CHIMNEY CROWN

Chimney crowns which can also be referred to as chimney washes or chimney sprays are masonry structures found at the uppermost part of a chimney. These functions are:

• Water Protection: Unlike the flue covering the chimney top, a chimney crown goes over the whole structure of the chimney. It is built with all four sides sloping away from the flue entry so that water will be redirected and no moisture enters into the bricks forming it. 

• Structural Support: By supporting its weight evenly throughout, a chimney crown keeps masonry stable and prevents age-related cracks or decay. 

• Sealing: Falling in line with acceptable standards, this type of chimney crown helps seal the top of the chimney preventing rainwater from seeping through to cause damage on brickwork and liners. In addition, it serves to protect against damage to flashings underneath that could result in leaks inside, leading to water damages in your home or business. 

While chimney caps and chimney crowns serve different purposes, both are essential components of a properly functioning chimney system. Chimney caps protect the flue from debris, moisture, and animal intrusion, while chimney crowns provide structural support and water protection for the entire chimney stack. Regular inspection and maintenance of both chimney caps and chimney crowns are crucial to ensure the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your chimney and heating system. 

Kerry Tuckpointing specializes in chimney inspection, repair, and maintenance services all throughout Chicagoland and suburbs. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to ensuring the safety and efficiency of your chimney system. Contact us today to schedule an inspection in Worth, Tinley Park, Burbank, and surrounding areas.