Chase Covers

Chimneys are hollow, and as such they need roofs to keep animals, water, and debris out of the insides of the chimney.  Masonry chimneys have crowns, which are tops made out of mortar.  Prefabricated chimney/fireplace systems are covered instead with a nifty flat metal roof called a chase cover.

A chase cover is like a metal shoebox lid for the top of the chimney.  The chimney flue itself, usually a section of double-walled metal pipe, extends through a hole in the chase cover and is covered by a single-flue cap.  The join where the flue meets the cover is caulked, and sometimes also surrounded by a storm collar.  This helps keep water from entering the chase cover at this junction.

In combination with a single-flue cap, the chase cover seals the top of the chimney against water, weather, and animal intrusion.  Having a chase cover in good condition can greatly prolong the life of the chimney.

A chase cover in very poor shape.

Common problems with chase covers include improper installation (screws driven directly through the top of the chase cover, allowing water to enter through the screw holes); rust and wear.  Repeated cycles of heat and cold can also bend and warp chase covers, especially those made of galvanized metal.  This allows water to pool on the surface and can damage the cover.

Our chase covers are made from stainless steel which will not rust, and all come with a lifetime warranty.  They are made with crossbreaks, special crosswise bends which keep the chase cover slightly convex, so water will not pool on the top and leak in around the edges of the flue.

We sell our chase covers wholesale to contractors nationwide!  Click here for more information.