07.24.13
How to Top a Chimney in Style
Not only does a chimney add character to a house, and there are other accessories available which can make your chimney an absolute stand-out. Arguably the two most striking accessories for a chimney are copper chimney caps and chimney shrouds. These two accessories will give your rooftop an aesthetic edge over average chimney tops, in addition to providing other important benefits.
Copper Chimney Caps
Chimney caps are constructed of various materials, such as aluminum and stainless steel; but copper is what top-of-the-line chimney caps are made with. Copper has indisputable beauty, whether it is polished regularly to retain its shine or is left alone to develop patina through a process of natural oxidation. Some don’t care for the green coloration that results from oxidation, but others actually prefer the more rugged look.
The functionality of a chimney cap makes it a must-have accessory, but those constructed with copper go beyond the basic functions to provide architectural beauty and amazing durability. Here is more about the benefits of copper chimney caps:
- Great look with no maintenance required. Copper looks great, whether natural luster is preserved by polishing it on a regular basis or oxidation produces a natural patina over time.
- Adds elegance to a chimney structure. The look of a chimney capped with a copper chimney topper easily surpasses the aesthetics of caps made with other types of material. The beautiful elegance of a copper chimney cap creates a striking effect.
- Durable and strong. The sturdiness and strength of a copper chimney cap may be the number one benefit of installing one. Copper is extremely durable and is able to withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Whether severe heat or harsh, bitter cold weather, the copper chimney cap will remain strong literally for decades.
- Resistant to heat. There is no need to worry about a copper chimney cap, no matter how high the temperatures in the chimney flue or how extreme the heat outside. The material can withstand intense heat and suffer no damage.
Prefabricated chimney caps are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. They can also be fully customized to fit specific chimney stacks.
Whether you have a copper chimney top or one that is made of steel or aluminum, these accessories should be considered a necessity. Chimney toppers prevent raining from pouring down the chimney flue. Moisture in a chimney can cause major damage which is costly to repair. The chimney cap together with the chimney crown, which is the very top of a masonry chimney, performs the important function of being the first line of defense against moisture in the chimney.
If you get a chimney topper with wire mesh, it will prevent animals and debris from entering the chimney flue – another huge benefit.
Chimney Shrouds
The tops of chimneys which are not constructed with masonry have a different type of top. The base is called a rain pan, a part which easily rusts. Decorative rain shrouds are often used to top off these types of chimneys in a decorative style. In a way these are similar to copper chimney caps, decorative shrouds add value and character to your home.
Why not contact our chimney professionals today for more information or to order a copper chimney top, chimney shroud, or any other fireplace accessory? We look forward to helping you with all of your needs related to chimneys and venting systems.
Northeastern Chimney, Inc.
formerly Nayaug Chimney Services, LLC
37 Cody Street, West Hartford, CT 06110
Phone: 860-233-5770