Kansas City Stainless Steel Chimney Cap Installation & Repair: Sleep Easy Has You Covered
Chimney leaks are expensive and we all want to prevent them – and it starts with the right protective components in the right places. Nothing stands up to the abuse of rain, snow, sleet, and ice like stainless steel, which is why we’re proud to sell and install stainless steel chimney caps near you in Kansas City and its neighboring communities. Reach out now for more info.
What Is a Chimney Cap?
The chimney flue, which sticks up past the chimney chase on both masonry chimneys and prefab chimneys, needs protection from the elements and unwanted visitors. Obviously this space needs to be open to let out fumes, smoke, and other toxins, but having an open hole in the top of your home isn’t an option either.
Cue chimney caps. A chimney cap is a covering specifically designed to fit over the top of the flue and act as a protective barrier. Chimney caps effectively keep out rain, snow, and debris, but have mesh siding, ensuring all those fumes from your fireplace fires can still vent out.
Here at Sleep Easy, we install stainless steel chimney caps, which attach to the top of the flue tile or pipe and prevent water, animals, and birds from entering the flue.
What Are the Functions of a Chimney Cap?
You know that chimney caps keep out a number of things, but their offerings extend a lot further than most people realize.
- Chimney caps keep out rain, snow, and moisture. Water entry is one of the most common reasons a chimney will face damage. A chimney cap offers a simple solution for preventing rain, ice, sleet, and snow from entering the flue – keeping your masonry, liner, and interior home structure better protected in the process.
- Chimney caps prevent animal entry. Chimney caps with mesh screens keep animals – like birds, squirrels, raccoons, etc. – from nesting inside the flue. Nesting materials can block airflow and pose a fire risk, and the animals themselves can attract pests, invite odors, and cause damage and inconvenience.
- Chimney caps block outside debris. On windy days, leaves, twigs, and other debris can enter an uncapped chimney and cause blockages or fire hazards. A cap helps prevent these materials from getting in.
- Chimney caps minimize downdrafts. Wind blowing across the chimney opening can cause downdrafts that push smoke and cold air back into the house. A chimney cap helps block or redirect these winds, improving draft efficiency and indoor air quality.
- Chimney caps can help prevent roof fires. The mesh screen on many caps can act as a spark guard, stopping embers from escaping the chimney and landing on the roof or nearby combustibles.
- Chimney caps protect the chimney structure. By limiting exposure to weather and physical debris, chimney caps help extend the lifespan of the chimney liner, flue, and crown.
- Chimney caps help save you money. All of the things we’ve discussed above contribute to more efficiency and less risk of damages – both things that will put more money in your pocket at the end of it all.
Why Have a Stainless Steel Chimney Cap Installed?
Without a chimney cap, you could experience a whole host of problems, like water entering the flue, damage to your home and fireplace, animal/bird invasion, foul odors, pest attraction, blockages (from leaves and twigs), and more.
That said, you want a chimney cap that will really stand the test of time and give you that lasting protection your household deserves. That’s why we always recommend installing a stainless steel chimney cap. Stainless steel options offer:
- Unmatched Durability: Unlike other materials, stainless steel is resistant to rust and corrosion. This means you’ll see a longer lifespan for your chimney cap with minimal maintenance and repairs.
- Affordability: While copper can offer a similar lifespan, most homeowners prefer stainless steel chimney caps because it comes at an affordable price point. While galvanized steel is the most affordable option, it also rusts much faster, requiring replacement sooner.
- Exceptional Performance: On top of guarding your chimney against snow, animals and downdrafts, stainless steel can also do so while withstanding high temperatures without warping.
- Modern Aesthetics: You don’t want a chimney cap that just functions well, you want one that looks good, too! Stainless steel has a clean and sleek appearance that will complement most architectural styles.
If your chimney cap is missing or poorly designed or fitted, call Sleep Easy. We install beautiful chimney caps in a variety of styles and sizes, so whether you need a single or multi-flue cap in a discreet or decorative style, we’ve got what you’re looking for.
How Long Does a Chimney Cap Last?
Your chimney cap’s lifespan may vary, depending on the type of cap you’ve invested in.
Stainless steel caps and copper chimney caps will always give the longest lifespan, often lasting decades with proper care and attention. That’s why, although they cost more upfront, these tend to offer the most bang for your buck in the long-term.
Galvanized steel and aluminum caps are more affordable, but will generally only last around 5 – 10 years. Although, poor weather and neglect can shorten that lifespan significantly.
Regardless of the material, regular inspections can help extend the lifespan of any chimney component by catching issues like clogs, loose parts, or rust before they become serious problems.
Call Kansas City’s Trusted Chimney Company: Call Sleep Easy
Ready to have your new stainless steel chimney cap or chase cover installed? Call Sleep Easy or request an appointment online. We offer the highest level of service and install the highest-quality products. We’re here to help you when you need us!
Although similar to caps, chase covers are separate component that also help protect from rain, leaks, and water damage. Ask us about installing yours.