A chimney cap is a metal cover with mesh sides that keeps rain, animals, leaves and sparks out of the flue. A top-sealing damper combines a cap with an airtight seal at the top of the chimney, which cuts drafts and heat loss when the fireplace is not in use.
Signs you need caps & dampers
- No cap, or a rusted, bent or loose one
- Birds, squirrels or raccoons in the chimney
- Water or rust in the firebox
- Cold drafts coming from the fireplace
- A damper that is stuck, rusted or doesn't close
Our process
- Measure. We measure every flue so the cap fits correctly and doesn't restrict draft.
- Recommend. Stainless steel or copper, single-flue or multi-flue, with or without a top-sealing damper.
- Install. The cap is secured to the flue or crown so it stays put in high winds.
Choosing a chimney cap
Stainless steel caps resist rust and are the most popular choice. Copper caps last for decades and develop a natural patina. Galvanized caps are cheaper but rust out much sooner. Multi-flue caps cover the entire crown and protect it from weather too.
Top-sealing dampers
Old throat dampers at the bottom of the flue often warp and leak air. A top-sealing damper closes at the top of the chimney with a rubber gasket, keeping warm air in during winter and conditioned air in during summer, and it doubles as a cap when open.
Frequently asked questions
Do I really need a chimney cap?
Yes. Caps keep rain, animals and debris out and stop sparks from landing on the roof. Many leaks and animal problems disappear once a proper cap is installed.
How do I get an animal out of my chimney?
Don't light a fire or try to smoke it out. Call us — we remove nests and debris safely and install a cap so it doesn't happen again. Some animals are protected species, so check local rules first.
Caps & Dampers near you
Philadelphia, PA · Bucks County, PA · Montgomery County, PA · Delaware County, PA · Chester County, PA · Lehigh Valley, PA · Cherry Hill, NJ · Burlington County, NJ · Gloucester County, NJ · Trenton & Princeton, NJ · Edison & Middlesex County, NJ · Monmouth County, NJ · Toms River & Ocean County, NJ · Bergen County, NJ · Wilmington, DE · Newark & Middletown, DE · Dover, DE · Staten Island, NY · Nassau County, NY · Suffolk County, NY · Westchester County, NY · Fairfield County, CT · New Haven, CT · Hartford, CT