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Information on stainless steel chimney caps
The best chimney cap to use is the one made of stainless steel rather than other types such as galvanized steel and copper. Stainless steel chimney caps will last much longer and they even have an extended warranty. And because they are rust and corrosion resistant, stainless steel chimney caps will never get affected or damaged by rain, snow, or extreme heat.
Why do you have to cover your chimney?
A chimney cap is used to cover the chimney openings on the rooftop. Uncovered chimney holes allow water from the rain or storms to pour down to the house. The water will run down the chimney and seep into the mortar and bricks to settle behind the firebricks of the house. And since there is no sunlight and only very little air circulation in the chimney, it's interior will remain wet even after the rain stops. The moisture brought about by the rain can weaken the firebricks and erode the mortar joints. An exposed chimney makes its interior susceptible to deterioration, so it is best to cover a chimney opening with a chimney cap.
Features of stainless steel chimney caps
Stainless steel chimney caps are made from 100 percent heavy-duty stainless steel. They are durable, weather-resistant, and can last a lifetime. These chimney caps are attached to the mortar crown that surrounds the flue tile. It is best to choose a size fits exactly to a single flue or one that may cover multiple flues.
The stainless steel lid of the cap can be flat, hip, or ridge, depending on your choice or what suits your chimney and your roof. The lid is removable for easier access -- you can clean and inspect the chimney all you want. The screen is also made of stainless steel wires that allow the passage of smoke from the chimney. This way, smoke and hot air from the fireplace rise up and do not suffocate the people inside the house. The mesh screen standard system of stainless steel chimney caps also prevents leaves and animals from coming in through the chimney hole.
The base size or the inside opening of chimney caps have sizes from as small as 13 x 13 square inches to as big as 29 x 29 square inches. The screen height can measure eight inches, 10 inches, 12 inches, or 16 inches.
Price range of stainless steel chimney caps
The prices of stainless steel chimney caps vary depending on size. A chimney cap with a base size of 13 x 13 square inches and a height of eight inches can cost around $110. This is actually the smallest dimension of a chimney cap, so the price is not that high. Remember that as the size of the stainless steel chimney cap increases, the price will become more expensive as well. The most expensive stainless chimney cap can cost around $350.