Manufactured or prefabricated chimneys have made having a fireplace in your home more affordable than ever. While these less expensive heating options have several differences from their Importance of a Chase Cover IMG- Cherry Hill NJ- Mason's chimney Servicemasonry counterparts, they still need regular maintenance in order to work their best.

One important component of the manufactured fireplace is the chimney chase cover. Chase covers play an important role in protecting the chimney and the rest of your home from exposure to the elements. However, chase covers can be damaged or deteriorate over time and may need to be serviced or repaired.

What is a chase cover?

The chimneys of manufactured fireplaces are functional – but not particularly stylish. To cover and protect the chimney, a chase built around the flue; chimney chases are usually made to match the exterior of the home and can be covered with masonry, siding, stucco, and more.

At the top of the chimney chase sits the chase cover. Chase covers  are typically made of metal such as stainless steel or aluminum and are designed to cover and protect the top of the chimney chase and flue. Their design keeps moisture and debris out of the chimney and helps protect the chimney chase structure.

Why is a chase cover important?

The primary purpose of the chimney chase cover is to keep moisture out of the chimney and flue. In addition, the sloped design and extended sides of the chase cover keep water off of the sides of the chimney chase. This protects the entire chimney system from water damage.

Water can damage your chimney system in a number of ways. In addition to causing damage to the building materials of the chimney chase, water can cause interior fireplace components to rust and deteriorate. Likewise, long term water entry can cause mold and mildew growth; this can affect the air quality in your home and cause breathing difficulties for those with allergies or asthma.

Signs your chase cover may be damaged

Because chase covers are made of metal, the most common sign your chimney chase cover has been damaged is rusting or staining on the sides of the chimney. If water is allowed to pool or accumulate on top of the chase cover the metal will begin to rust; this is very common in chase covers made using less expensive metals or those that are older.

While rust stains on the side of the chimney may be an eyesore, it is important to realize that the staining is more than just aesthetic – it means that water is damaging your chimney system. Oftentimes the presence of staining indicates that there may be a leak and water damage somewhere else in the fireplace or chimney.

The chimney chase cover is about more than just aesthetics; it protects manufactured chimneys from damage from the elements, moisture, debris, and more. If you have questions about your chase cover or think it may be damaged, contact Mason’s Chimney Service today to schedule an inspection.