What Causes Chase Cover Leaks?

A chimney chase cover is a protective metal enclosure that protects a factory-built chimney case. This cover is essential for keeping water, debris, and animals out while protecting against weather damage. 

However, like every chimney component, the chase cover is prone to wear and tear, which can lead to leaks. In this blog post, we look at the leading causes of chimney chase cover leaks and the steps you can take to prevent them.

The Main Causes of Chimney Chase Cover Leaks

Improper Installation

You’d be surprised how many chimney and fireplace problems we encounter that happen because of poor workmanship during installation or repairs. Failing to install the cover correctly makes it vulnerable to leaks. For example, if the contractor didn’t install the cover with the proper slope, rainwater will accumulate on the top, causing it to rust and eventually leak. Moreover, if the cover isn’t secured, it can shift or lift from heavy winds, creating a gap that allows water to get in. 

Wear and Tear

Because the cover is exposed to the elements, it suffers wear and tear, just like a masonry chimney. If you fail to keep up with routine maintenance, time, the sun, rain, and snow will take their toll. Additionally, failing to maintain the chase cover with regular cleaning can allow debris to accumulate on the top, trapping moisture and leading to leaks.

Material

The material the cover is made of can also contribute to leaks. If the cover is made from low-quality material, like galvanized steel, it will rust quickly, allowing water to get in. Furthermore, if the cover is made of a material that’s not appropriate for your climate, it will wear out faster. 

Weather Damage

We mentioned earlier wear and tear, which is typically caused by weather. If you live in an area that gets frequent extreme weather, heavy snow or ice can put too much weight on the cover, causing it to warp or sag. High winds also put the chase cover at risk of warping, which leads to leaks.

How to Protect Your Chimney Chase Cover From Leaks

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and here are a few tips to keep your chase cover in good shape and prevent leaks.

Install it Properly

This might not apply to you if you moved into a home with a chimney chase cover installed. But if you’re adding one, make sure you hire a competent contractor with a track record of providing high-quality work that lasts. If you’ve moved into a home and are worried about leaks, call a certified chimney specialist to inspect the cover and look for areas of concern. 

Use the Right Materials

As stated above, materials play a crucial role in your chase cover’s durability. Materials like copper and stainless steel (while more expensive) last longer and stand up to harsh weather compared to galvanized steel or aluminum. Also, the climate in which you live determines which material to use. For example, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause some materials to expand and contract, bending them out of shape and forming gaps for water to get in. Additionally, areas that see a lot of snow and ice need a material that can withstand constant moisture exposure. 

Schedule Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Here’s another example of how an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Annual chimney inspections and maintenance are much less expensive than replacing a chase cover and repairing water damage caused by leaks. Certified professionals should do these inspections because they have the training to spot potential problems and fix them before they get worse. 

Make Timely Repairs

Finally, if your chase cover is damaged — even if it’s minor — it’s essential you repair it as soon as you can. Seal gaps, cracks, or holes and fix structural issues that could worsen through neglect and lead to leaks.

Call the Professionals at Fire N’ Stone Today

At Fire N’ Stone, our motto is, “From frame to finish, we do it all.” We’re your local, family-owned, full-service chimney and fireplace company. Whether you need chase cover repair, chimney sweeping, maintenance, inspection, custom stone work, or want a fireplace insert or stove, we’re the one-stop shop in Tilton, NH. Our technicians are certified by the Chimney Safety Institute of America and are fully insured. Contact us today at 603-293-4040.