Chimney chase covers replaced in Lake Nona

Fastening the cover through its skirt

A chase cover is held by fasteners through its skirt into the framing on the sides of the chase, where water runs past instead of sitting. Spacing them evenly on every side keeps the skirt tight to the wall along its full length. Manufacturer instructions we have read also call for noncombustible spacers at the corners beneath the chase top. We use fasteners compatible with the cover metal and place them where the manual for your system puts them.

A written record of the new chase cover

After installation you receive a written description of the new cover, with the metal, thickness, dimensions, collar details and any related work performed. Keep it with your fireplace paperwork. If you sell the home, a buyer's inspector may ask about the chase top, and a clear record answers the question. It also helps anyone who works on the chimney later, since they will know the cover was made for a specific opening layout. The record also notes whether the original cap was reused or replaced and why.

Why the old cover is never used as a pattern

Tracing the old cover looks like a shortcut, yet a rusted, dented cover has usually moved from its original shape. Its collar may be off center, and it may have been undersized from the start. We measure the chase and the pipe position directly. The old cover is useful only as a record of what failed, such as where water pooled or which seam opened first. Those clues tell us where the new top needs more slope or a stronger seam.

What to tell us when you call

A few details help us plan the inspection of your Lake Nona chase, and none of them requires a ladder. You do not need to know the metal or the fireplace model. If you still have closing papers or the fireplace manual, those help too. If the fireplace is on a second floor or behind furniture, mention it so we plan the inside look as well.

• When you first noticed rust, stains or noise
• Whether the fireplace burns wood and is still in use
• Whether the roof or siding was replaced recently
• How many stories the chase rises