Many homeowners may make a mistake of leaving their chimney open. This is because they do not know the dangers that come with an open chimney. This can be attested by those who have experience in sweeping chimney. There are many advantages of ensuring your chimney is capped as no leaves and critters will be able to enter your chimney. It will also act as a protection during the times of adverse weather conditions.
Rain can cause damage
There are various effects caused by rain on the chimney if it happens to be open. First and foremost, the bad smell that can begin emanating from the flue once there is mixture of creosote. The walls will also be weakened. Further damage happens if the soot mixture runs down the pipe where rust can occur even affecting the dumper. If the soot mixes with rain, sulphuric acid is formed. It is corrosive and causes destruction.
Pests and Parasites
An open chimney can be a home of rodents such as rats and squirrels. Other small animals such as cats, snakes, birds, and raccoons will also find it a nice dwelling. Birds are a common problem. They will build nests which can burn causing fire accidents. This can be confirmed by chimney sweepers who have encountered such problems.
Cap Installation
A flue cap will solve all these woes and you will use your chimney comfortably without fear of coming into contact with snakes and rodents. Metal chimney inserts are bought with their own caps but for masonry chimneys there are many styles of caps that you can select. They are made of a wide variety of materials such as aluminium, steel, copper, and iron. They should be permanently mounted until a time comes when sweeping and inspection is needed.
The installation of the cap is not always a simple task. It is important to contact a chimney sweeper who has experience to do the job. There are ladders to climb, and roofs to walk, both can be dangerous activities. The St. Louis chimney sweep expert will also inform you of the many type of caps that you can use and then you will be ready to go.
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