What Is A Chimney Chase Cover & Do You Need One?

What Is A Chimney Chase Cover?

A chimney chase cover, also known as a chase pan or chimney cover, is a metal cover used to waterproof the top of a chimney. Not to be confused with a chimney rain cap which only covers the flue opening. The chimney chase cover seals the top of the chimney structure and allows the flue pipe or clay tile to extend above the top of the chimney. A chase cover is most commonly found on top of wood-framed chimneys with wood, vinyl, aluminum, or brick veneer siding. However, a chase cover can be a great way to replace the top of a cement chimney crown on a traditional all-masonry chimney. A chimney chase cover is independent of the vent pipe and is simply a flashing at the top of the chimney.

Why Do You Need a Chimney Chase Cover?

A chimney chase cover is a necessity to ensure the top of the chimney is watertight. If you have a wood-framed chimney chase, you most certainly need a chimney chase cover. A chimney chase is a structure that is most commonly constructed to hide an ugly vent pipe running up the side of a home or through the roof. If you have a framed chimney chase, you need a chimney chase cover. If your existing chimney chase cover is starting to deteriorate, it would be a good idea to replace it sooner rather than later to avoid additional damage that would be caused by a leak.

Benefits

Waterproofing

A chimney chase cover is a key defense against rain, snow, and weather from entering the chimney while still allowing the flue pipe to exit the chimney. The top of the cover should have cross breaks which will shed all the water off the top of the chimney.

Warranty Against Rust

If you see rust stains running down the siding of the chimney, it is likely caused by the old chase cover. Replacing your chimney cover with a stainless steel cover will prevent further stains on the side of your home. Rockford Chimney Supply warranties chimney chase covers against rust corrosion.

Increased Home Value

By replacing a galvanized or rusty chase cover, you are adding value to your home. The chimney is a common structure to be evaluated and inspected by a home inspector during the selling process of any home. If the chimney cover is in bad shape, the home inspector will include it on the inspection report.

Which Product is Best for a Chimney Chase Cover?

Chimney chase covers come in a variety of different materials and thicknesses. If this is new construction or if you are simply replacing a deteriorated chimney chase cover, it is important to choose the highest grade steel for your new chimney cover. Make sure your new cover is at least 24 gauge thick, has diagonal creases, and a drip edge to shed the water off your chimney. Make sure the new chase cover has a welded and sealed collar for the pipe to pass through.

At Rockford Chimney Supply, we fabricate each and every chase cover custom per order. Fabricating the covers by hand allows you to enter your exact dimensions for the perfect fit and weathertight seal.

Stainless steel Chimney Chase Covers

Stainless steel is one of the best materials to use for a new chimney chase cover. Stainless steel will never rust and ensures your chimney cover will be holding strong for many years to come. Stainless steel chase covers are often fabricated out of 24, 22, and 20 gauge stainless steel. Anything thinner than 24 gauge would not be recommended. The average cost of a stainless steel chase cover is going to be around $300 - $600.

Copper Chimney Chase Covers

Copper is another metal that has superior corrosion resistance. Typically, the copper chase covers are fabricated from 20-ounce copper. The copper chase cover is a great addition if you currently have copper dormers, roof valleys, or other copper accents on your home. A copper chimney cover will patina over time and will end up looking like an old penny. The average cost of a copper chase cover is going to be around $900 - $1200.00

Powder Coated Stainless Steel Chase Cover

If you're not too keen on the look of stainless steel, powder coating the chase cover can be a great way to add curb appeal. Powder coating is the only way to paint the stainless steel and have it stick. Painting a stainless steel cover with regular paint will run off over time. The powder coating is a lifetime coating that will not fade. The average cost of a powder-coated chase cover is going to be around $450 - $750.00.