Chimney cap installation in Lake Forest, IL
An open chimney is an invitation for rain, leaves, birds and squirrels. A good cap closes that door and still lets smoke out.
A chimney cap is the cover that sits on top of the flue, with mesh on the sides so smoke can escape. It keeps rain from going straight down the chimney, keeps animals from moving in, and helps stop embers from landing on the roof or in the yard.
Plenty of chimneys have no cap at all, and others have a cap that has rusted, bent or blown off. We install new caps and replace damaged ones, and we make sure the cap fits the flue and does not choke the draft.
What we look at when fitting a cap
- The size and shape of your flue, so the cap actually fits
- The mesh size, so animals stay out and smoke still flows freely
- The material, so it holds up in our weather
- How the cap is attached, so it will not shake loose in a storm
- The condition of the crown underneath, since a new cap on a cracked crown does not solve a leak
Signs you need a cap, or a new one
- Birds, bats or squirrels in the chimney, or noises from the fireplace
- Rain or leaves coming down into the firebox
- A rusted, dented or missing cap
- Debris stuck at the top of the flue
- Smoke that backs up on windy days
A cap is usually a small job with a big payoff. If animals are already inside, tell us when you call so we can plan for that. For the area right under the cap, see chimney crown repair.
Questions we hear
Will a cap stop my chimney from drawing?
A cap that is sized properly will not. Too-fine mesh can clog with soot, which is one reason sizing and mesh matter.
Do I really need a cap?
Most chimneys benefit from one. It is one of the simplest ways to protect the flue and the inside of the house.
Can you remove an animal nest?
Tell us what you hear or see when you call. Some situations need a wildlife specialist, and we will say so if that is the case.
What are caps made of?
Common materials are stainless steel, galvanized steel and copper. We can talk through what fits your chimney and budget.
Other services
Tell us what you’re seeing
Leave your name, number and a few words about the chimney or fireplace. We read every request and call you back. If it is urgent, call us instead: (224) 271-0137.