How to Spot Chimney Cap and Shroud Damage

How to Spot Chimney Cap and Shroud Damage

Covering chimneys is crucial for preventing damage caused by the weather elements and animals. If moisture from rain infiltrates a chimney structure, it can deteriorate and also develop rust and mold. An open chimney is an open invitation for animals such as squirrels, birds, and raccoons to enter and become trapped. Protection against moisture infiltration and animals are the main reasons for chimney caps and chimney shrouds. However, caps and shrouds can sustain damage eventually and require repair or replacement.

At Dedicated Roofing of Georgia, our team offers roof inspection services, which includes around chimneys. If issues are identified, we can provide the necessary repairs or replacements to restore or enhance functionality and visual appeal to your chimney area and roof.

Chimney Caps

• Chimney caps sit on top of the chimney.
• The most popular types and styles of chimney cap use either copper, aluminum, or stainless steel.
• They often have a wire mesh that surrounds the chimney with the covering on top.
• Due to copper’s beauty and durability, it is often the preferred material.

Chimney Shrouds

• Also called “rain shrouds,”
• chimney shrouds provide a decorative cap to chimneys.
• They also protect your chimney from the elements and animals.
• They are commonly installed over non-masonry chimneys and provide an attractive finishing touch to the chimney and home.

Chimney Cap and Shroud Damage

As a homeowner, you may be able to identify some chimney cap problems. Other damage may only be uncovered by a professional inspection. Over time, chimney caps and shrouds can sustain damage requiring repair or replacement.

• For example, you may have discovered a potential problem with the chimney cap or shroud if you find water is entering the firebox. 
• Another indication of a possible problem with a chimney cap or shroud is when a drafting issue is present while a fire is going in the fireplace.

• Also, if smoke is backing up into the room where the fireplace is, the chimney cap or shroud may be completely or partially blocked with twigs, leaves, or debris that may have lodged in that location. Any back draft experienced in the room when the damper is working properly may be due to a chimney cap or shroud issue.

• Also, if uninvited animals become trapped in the chimney system between the cap/shroud and fireplace, there may be damage to the cap or shroud

To learn about our roof inspection, repair, and replacement services and how we can repair chimney cap or shroud damage, give us a call today at 770.892.6665, or use our contact form.