Chimney maintenance is important to ensure that your home is safe and the chimney lasts for many years. The crown and the chase cover are among the chimney parts that are very important despite the fact that they are not very well understood. These components are crucial in shielding the chimney from the forces of nature but are dissimilar in construction and purpose.
It is not only beneficial to know specific details regarding each component for maintenance purposes and also to avoid any future harm that might cause costly fixes. Below, we will focus on explaining the main differences and features of chimney crowns and chase covers.
What is a Chimney Crown?
The chimney crown is sometimes mistaken for a chimney chase cover; it is a large flat slab of concrete or mortar that sits on top of your chimney. Its main purpose is to prevent water seepage into the chimney structure. The crown is the upper part of the chimney but does not include the flue liner. Designed correctly, a chimney crown inclines down—to drain the water to the exterior. Its goal is to lessen the exposure of water that can erode the bricks and mortar on the chimney.
What is a Chimney Chase Cover?
A chimney chase cover is used for chimneys framed with wood, metal or vinyl. These are common in contemporary buildings, and a chase cover usually surrounds the flue. It is made from metal material, especially stainless steel or aluminum, and is fixed on top of the chimney like a cap. Its purpose is similar to that of the crown: for the purpose of avoiding the build up of rain, snow and other forms of debris in the chimney. It tilts slightly toward the perimeters to prevent water accumulation.
The Main Chimney Crown and Chase Cover Distinctions
a. Material
Chimney crowns are constructed from concrete or mortar, making them strong and waterproof. Chase covers on the other hand are usually made from metal and thus are lighter in weight and at times likely to rust if not well coated.
b. Design
A chimney crown has a sloping surface to direct the water away from the sides of the chimney. This helps in preventing water from accumulating and dripping through the masonry. While a chase cover may also be somewhat inclined, it is comparatively flatter and covers the top of the chimney completely to enclose it.
c. Purpose and Use
Though both are used to shield the chimney from harsh weather conditions, the crown is ideal for masonry chimneys. The chase cover, on the other hand, is designed for framed or wood-sided chimneys that are common in modern construction.
Conclusion
Understanding the type of design and the material used in these parts will help a lot in their care. These are some of the most important parts of the building; therefore, it is necessary to inspect them periodically to see whether they are still in a position to minimize water risks and prevent general wear and tear of the chimney.
