The chimney crown is an essential component of your chimney system. It is located at the top of your chimney, and its purpose is to protect the chimney from rain, snow, and other weather elements. If the chimney crown becomes damaged, it can lead to severe damage to your chimney, so it's crucial to maintain it regularly.
A chimney crown is the concrete covering at the top opening of the chimney. Its primary function is protecting the brick and mortar chimney structure from water and other elements from entering your chimney system. This piece serves to protect your chimney from water damage by providing a slanted surface that helps to redirect the water away.
Without it, not only will your chimney suffer wear and tear, but it could also cause damage because your fireplace and flue are left exposed, eventually allowing key components of your chimney to rust or allowing rodents to make a new home inside your chimney.
It’s hard to notice, given your chimney crown is at the very top of your chimney, but if there’s a crack, water will find its way into the chimney system and eventually begin to cause damage. That’s where we come in.
If you notice any cracks, chips, or other damage to your chimney crown, you should have it repaired as soon as possible. The repair process typically involves filling the cracks and applying a special chimney crown sealer to protect the chimney from further damage. It’s important to hire a professional to handle the repair process to ensure that the job is done correctly.
Crowns should not be mistaken for the chimney cap, which is made of metal and primarily covers the flue. You’ll find the chimney crown above the last layer of brick at the top of your chimney. It is typically about three to four inches thick and slopes down at the edge. There are a few types of crowns:
Cast-in-the-place:s uitable for large chimneys and made of concrete, Precast: Ideal for smaller chimneys and made of concrete
Precast: Ideal for smaller chimneys and made of concrete
Floating crown: Built with an overhang that is approximately two inches above the chimney. This type of crown takes longer to install but usually lasts longer than other crowns.
The crown is prone to damage from falling debris, tree branches, or rough weather conditions due to its location. Over time, this can lead to cracks and leaks in your chimney, which allows rainwater into your home’s interior walls if the damages are not repaired promptly or found during your regular chimney inspection.
If you allow the crown to stay damaged, it can result in the rest of the masonry to crumble. In fact, faulty crowns are a common cause of chimney leaks. By keeping the chimney crown in good condition, you can keep your chimney and the rest of your fireplace in good repair, too.
There are many problems that can arise with your chimney crown—professional chimney repair technicians like ours can identify these problems. Be aware of such issues as:
The frequency and type of issues are primarily determined by the age of your chimney, how well it was constructed, and how well you take care of your property.
Chimney crown problems can lead to the deterioration of your chimney. Deterioration continues to worsen over time, if it is left uninspected for an extended period of time, it can eventually completely break off of your chimney. It is always best to address crown issues early so you don’t fall into a situation where the entire chimney has to be rebuilt.
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In some cases, the damage to the chimney crown may be severe enough that it requires a complete replacement. This involves removing the damaged crown and replacing it with a new one that is specifically designed for your chimney. It’s important to have a professional handle the replacement process to ensure that the new crown is installed correctly and will provide the necessary protection for your chimney.
Maintaining your chimney crown is crucial to ensure that it remains in good condition and provides the necessary protection for your chimney. Regular inspections can help identify any cracks or other damage before they become severe, allowing for timely repairs or replacement. Additionally, cleaning the chimney crown regularly can help prevent buildup that can lead to damage over time.
In summary, the chimney crown is a critical component of your chimney system that requires regular maintenance to ensure that it remains in good condition. If you notice any damage to your chimney crown, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your chimney. A professional chimney sweep can help you identify any issues with your chimney crown and provide the necessary services to keep your chimney in top condition.
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