Just like houses and the families within them, each and every chimney is a little different and unique in its own special way. Sure, the functionality is always the same – to release the smoke and exhaust created during combustion and properly ventilate the home heating system – but the structure and makeup of various components can vary from model to model and home to home.
…when it comes to the average lifespan of a chase cover, there are several factors that play a role, but it can be anywhere between five years to a lifetime.
Some chimneys have a chimney crown and others sport a chase cover. Though aesthetically different, both serve the same purpose – to protect the chimney and flue from rain, animals, and debris from entering and damaging the system.
Now, when it comes to the average lifespan of a chase cover, there are several factors that play a role, but it can be anywhere between five years to a lifetime. Curious about the details? If you’re a homeowner in Southwest Missouri or Northwest Arkansas, when it comes to chimneys, there is no one better than Ozark Stove & Chimney to reach out to.
Book with us online or call 417-201-6585 to speak with someone from our team and learn what we can do for you.
What Affects a Chimney Chase Cover Lifespan?
A chimney chase cover plays a crucial role in protecting your chimney from the elements and in preventing water, debris, and animals from entering the chimney. The lifespan of a chimney chase cover can be influenced by several factors…
- Material Quality: The material of the chase cover is a significant factor. Stainless steel is a common and durable choice, as it is resistant to corrosion and rust. Galvanized steel is another option, but it may not be as durable in the long run. If the chase cover is made of materials that are not corrosion-resistant, it may deteriorate more quickly, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions or high humidity.
- Proper Installation: A chase cover must be correctly installed by a professional chimney technician to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Improper installation can lead to water pooling, rust, or damage, thus reducing its lifespan.
- Exposure to Elements: This is less out of your control, but various weather conditions such as rain, snow, and sunlight can all affect the longevity of your chase cover. If the weather is worse than normal for a season, you may notice more wear.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular inspections and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of a chimney chase cover. Cleaning out debris, checking for rust or corrosion, and addressing any issues promptly can prevent small problems from turning into major ones.
- Chimney Usage: How often you use your fireplace and chimney can affect the overall wear and tear on the chase cover. Regular use may expose the cover to more heat and combustion byproducts, potentially impacting its longevity.
- Local Environment Conditions: Environmental factors, such as pollution levels and the presence of corrosive substances in the air, can also affect your chimney chase cover’s quality over time.
To maximize the lifespan of your chimney chase cover, it’s essential to choose a high-quality material, ensure proper installation, conduct regular inspections, and address any issues promptly. If you notice signs of deterioration, it’s advisable to replace the chase cover to prevent further damage to your chimney.
How Does the Material of My Chase Cover Determine its Longevity?
When it comes to the materials that makeup your chimney and its parts, there is a decent variety. Chase covers come in a variety of metals, but keep in mind that materials affect performance:
Galvanized steel: This is the least expensive chase cover material, but it is also more prone to easily rust – and because of this typically has to be replaced every few years. So, what may seem more cost-effective upfront could really have you shelling out more over time.- Aluminum: This is another cheaper metal to source, but while aluminum might not rust as quickly as other options, it is a malleable metal that can be easily damaged in harsh weather conditions or by falling objects.
- Copper or stainless steel: Both of these choices are more durable making the investment more worth it. They are much less prone to damage and rust, and they won’t require a ton of maintenance – all while still finishing off your chimney nicely, so aesthetics won’t suffer.
How Do I Know When I Need To Replace My Chase Cover?
It’s time to replace your chase cover if/when you start to notice that yours is rusting, leaking, or generally looking a little worse for the wear. Flaking, spalling, and crumbling is to a chimney crown as rust and leaking is to chase cover. Regardless of how long you’ve had your chimney and its chase cover, if you notice it is not performing or appearing the same as it once did, cease use until a chimney technician can get out to take a look.
Also, remember to book your annual inspections before each burn season to ensure your chimney tech can spot hard-to-see issues before they get worse.
Call Us Today With Questions or To Schedule
Give us a call at 417-201-6585 to book your appointment and learn why homeowners throughout the Ozarks prefer Ozark Stove & Chimney for all their chimney needs.