Why a cap matters
- Keeps animals and nesting material out of the flue
- Stops rain and snowmelt from damaging the damper and masonry
- Spark-arrestor mesh reduces the chance of embers reaching your roof or yard
- Can reduce downdrafts on windy days
Animals in the chimney
If you hear scratching or chirping, do not light a fire. Smoke can trap animals and nesting material can catch fire. A chimney professional can remove the animal and debris and install a cap so it does not happen again.
Frequently asked questions
Are chimney caps required?
They are strongly recommended and required by many appliance manufacturers. In wildfire-prone areas, a spark arrestor is a smart safety measure.