Does a Custom Chimney Cap Make Sense for you?

Custom chimney caps are usually considered more attractive, are very functional, and hold up quite well. Custom caps are relatively expensive, however, as they must be fitted to each chimney’s exact dimensions.

Square custom chimney cap to protect chimney crown. — Custom caps cover and protect the entire crown, as well as providing a more pleasing aesthetic element.

Design and installation requires several steps and multiple trips for measuring and installation. Depending on the size, location, and shape of the chimney, the estimate and project may require special ladders or scaffolding to inspect, measure, and install this type of cap.

Perhaps all that’s needed is a flue cap. These help keep sparks in, and animals out. They also adequately keep rainwater out of the interior of the fireplace.

Custom chimney caps require taking nine accurate measurements, coordinating with the sheet metal shop to ensure good craftsmanship, and finally, proper installation with stainless anchors drilled into the masonry. Therefore, these chimney caps are quite expensive when compared to standard flue-mounted caps.

Chimney cover protects brick chimney and fireplace from moisture damage. and animal intrusions. — Custom chimney caps are more attractive and are extremely durable. They can be quite expensive, yet well worth it, particularly on chimneys which are prominently positioned on the front of the house.

Brick Doctor’s approach to specialty custom caps

When the cost of a chimney cap installation is part of a general brick repair project, much of the preparation and required extra efforts–such as scaffolding–can be accomplished more efficiently. The costs of the custom chimney cap may be shared with the masonry repair work, making the custom cap more cost effective.

Brick Doctor is more reluctant to offer a bid for a stand-alone custom chimney cap, as it doesn’t necessarily require masonry expertise. Many chimneys require scaffolding to reach them, and the process required (measuring, having the cap constructed at the sheet metal shop, and installation) drives the costs up. Such projects may not require our special expertise, and may be more efficiently handled by a chimney sweep. However, if you are an existing customer, or a discerning prospect who needs to ensure that all the masonry-related components of the chimney are functioning properly, we are eager to help.

Prominent brick chimney with a custom chimney cap and Chimney pots. — A more prominent chimney may demand a more attractive cap than a flue-mounted cap can provide.

Brick Doctor does custom chimney caps right.

We are only interested in solutions that last for many years. Brick Doctor’s custom chimney caps fit like a glove because there are nine measurements made for each one…and they are carefully securely with masonry anchors drilled into the chimney. These handsome caps provide the ultimate protection for both the crown and the flue. We also realize how critical chimney crowns are to the longevity of your chimney.

Nails and bailing wire? Nails are cheap and easy to use, but can damage your chimney’s brick and mortar. Nails may rust, become unsightly, or fall out… but the more critical issue is potential structural damage. Bricks pried apart by nails hammered into the brick and mortar invite moisture and freeze/thaw cycles, which will eventually require expensive masonry repairs.

One more caveat

Specialty chimney caps are custom-made to fit each chimney’s unique size, and your taste for color and shape. Once made, it cannot be cancelled, re-configured, or returned to be used elsewhere.

We are here to help you

If you need help with a custom chimney cap, or advice about chimney crowns, give us a call or email. We’ve repaired and restored hundreds of chimneys since 1986, and are eager to help with yours!