Chimney cap and spark screen replacement in Engelwood Park

How far the flue liner should stand above the crown

Brick Industry Association Technical Note 19B recommends that the flue liner extend at least two inches above the top of the masonry cap. That projection is also where a bolt-on flue cap attaches, so a tile cut flush with the crown changes which cap style can work.

When the liner barely clears the crown, we explain the options before ordering anything. A cap that mounts on the crown may suit the chimney, or the top may need masonry attention first. The written scope keeps any crown or liner work on its own line so the cap price stays readable.

What an uncovered flue lets into the chimney

Without a cap, rain falls straight down the flue, leaves and twigs collect on the damper, and birds or small animals can find their way in. Moisture inside the flue also mixes with deposits and can leave odors in the room.

Replacing a missing cap is one of the simpler chimney jobs, and it is usually worth doing promptly. We fit a cap sized to your flue with a screen suited to the fireplace, and our local team handles the ladder and roof work. Book within 72 hours after your free inspection and the service comes with 10% off.

When a cap is too large for the flue tile

An oversized bolt-on cap can only be tightened if the bolts reach the tile. Caps that rely on long bolt travel sit less securely and can shift over time.

Old caps are sometimes oversized because the right size was not in stock when they were installed. We replace them with a cap sized to the tile we measure. When no stock size fits well, an adjustable model or a made-to-measure cap is the answer, and we explain which one we recommend and why in the written estimate.

Questions to ask before approving a cap replacement

A clear estimate answers these questions on paper. If one of them is not covered, ask before you approve the work, from us or from anyone else quoting the job.

• Which part is being replaced, the flue cap, the crown or a chase cover?
• What size is the cap and what was measured to choose it?
• What metal is the cap body and what is the screen made of?
• How is it attached, and can it be removed for cleaning?
• Is removal and disposal of the old cap included?
• How will anything found under the old cap be handled?