Turn To Top Hat & Tails Chimney for Expert Chase Cover Installations Near South Orange
If your home has a prefabricated or factory-built chimney system, the component sitting at the very top – the one often overlooked – is called the chimney chase cover. Similar in purpose to the concrete crown on a masonry chimney, the chase cover protects the top of your chimney chase by sealing it off from the elements. It’s typically a flat or slightly sloped metal cover with holes cut for the flue pipes, designed to keep rain, snow, and other debris from entering the chase and damaging the chimney system inside.
Our team has seen firsthand how often problems start at the top of the chimney. That’s why we place special emphasis on the quality and condition of the chimney chase cover during every inspection. Replacing or upgrading a failing cover is one of the most effective ways to safeguard your chimney system and your home. Instead of constantly searching “chase cover installations near South Orange” on end without a return of credible results, reach out to Top Hat & Tails Chimney today!
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How Long Should a Chimney Chase Cover Last?
The lifespan of a chimney chase cover depends heavily on the material it’s made from and how well it was installed. Many homes – especially newer construction or those built to budget – come with galvanized steel chase covers. Galvanized steel is inexpensive and easy to install, but it has a significant drawback: it rusts. In some climates, particularly those with regular rain, snow, or salt exposure, a galvanized cover might only last five to seven years before rust begins to form. Once rust starts, it spreads quickly, forming pinholes or full sections of corrosion that allow water into the chimney chase.
Stainless steel and copper are two far more durable options. Stainless steel, in particular, offers excellent corrosion resistance and can easily last for decades with minimal maintenance. Copper, while more of an investment, offers both long-term performance and striking visual appeal. As it weathers, copper develops a green patina that’s especially appealing on homes with a classic or coastal aesthetic.
Top Hat & Tails Chimney recommends stainless steel or copper chase covers for their performance, durability, and value. These covers not only outlast their cheaper counterparts but also offer stronger protection and require fewer repairs.
What Are the Signs That My Chimney Chase Cover Needs To Be Replaced?
One of the most visible red flags that your chimney chase cover is failing is rust. If you notice brown or reddish streaks running down the sides of the chase or the exterior structure around your chimney pipe, the chase cover has likely started to corrode. These rust streaks are more than just cosmetic – they’re a clear indication that water is getting in where it shouldn’t and that the integrity of the metal has been compromised.
You might also notice other symptoms of water intrusion inside your home. Stains on the ceiling near the chimney, dampness or musty odors around the fireplace, and visible rust inside the firebox can all be signs that your chimney chase cover is no longer keeping water out. In some cases, you may even hear dripping sounds in the flue after heavy rain, or see water pooling on the smoke shelf.
Even if you haven’t noticed visible signs of trouble, it’s a good idea to have your chase cover inspected annually. Our trained technicians at Top Hat & Tails Chimney know exactly what to look for and can identify early signs of wear, warping, or loosening around the seams and flue openings. Catching these problems early can help you avoid much more extensive water damage and preserve the safety of your chimney system.
Can I Replace My Chimney Chase Cover Myself?
Technically, a homeowner could attempt to replace a chimney chase cover on their own – but it’s not a job we recommend taking lightly. Replacing a chase cover involves working at great heights, navigating the roof safely, removing and lifting potentially heavy or sharp metal, and properly sealing the new cover to prevent leaks. Improper installation is one of the top causes of early chase cover failure. If the cover isn’t secured evenly or sealed properly around the flue pipe(s), water can still find a way in.
In addition to safety concerns, there’s also the matter of choosing the right materials and sizing. A cover that’s too small won’t protect the full top of the chase, while one that’s too large might not fit securely. Without the right slope or drip edge design, even a good cover may fail to direct water away effectively.
Top Hat & Tails Chimney takes the guesswork and danger out of the process. We fabricate custom-fit stainless steel or copper chase covers that are built specifically for your chimney, ensuring a precise and watertight fit. Our technicians are trained in proper installation techniques, from securing the flange to sealing around the pipe collar, so you can rest easy knowing your system is protected for the long haul.
Should I Upgrade My Chase Cover if I’m Not Seeing Leaks?
Even if your chase cover hasn’t started leaking yet, upgrading to a higher-quality cover is a smart move if your current one is made of galvanized steel or shows early signs of wear. Many leaks go undetected until they’ve already caused damage inside the chase, and by then, repairs can involve replacing structural supports, insulation, and even portions of your flue pipe.
Think of it like roof maintenance – you don’t wait until water’s pouring into your living room before you fix a few missing shingles. The same logic applies to your chimney chase cover. Proactively upgrading to a durable, rust-resistant material like stainless steel or copper can prevent headaches, extend the lifespan of your prefabricated chimney, and protect the interior of your home from mold and moisture damage.
We’re South Orange’s Top Choice for Chimney Chase Cover Replacement & Repair
To schedule a chimney inspection or learn more about our chase cover replacement services, call Top Hat & Tails Chimney or request an appointment online at your convenience. Don’t wait until you have a leak – let us help you protect your home from the top down.