Chimney Liner and Custom Cap in Shelton, CT
Our team recently completed a chimney restoration project that included a new chimney liner and a custom multi-flue cap installation in Shelton, Connecticut. The homeowner contacted us after signs of condensation damage both inside and out of chimney system. Moisture from flue gases had begun to deteriorate the interior liner, creating conditions that could eventually affect safe appliance venting.
We inspected the chimney and recommended a permanent solution that would protect the structure and restore proper performance.
Resolving deteriorated flue tile situation
To correct the problem, we installed a properly sized UL-listed stainless steel chimney liner. The new liner pipe exhaust gases, moisture vapor, and carbon monoxide to travel safely from the appliance to the top of the chimney , bypassing the defective flues. The installation also protects the masonry structure from future condensation damage.
Replacing the Old Bluestone Chimney Cover
The top of this chimney had an older bluestone-style cover supported by small brick pillars. At one time, that may have seemed like a solid way to cover the chimney, but it was no longer doing the job properly.
The stone top was weathered, and the brick support pillars were starting to deteriorate. This type of setup also leaves the sides of the flues open, which means wind-driven rain, leaves, animals, and debris can still get into the chimney system.
A stone cover is not the same thing as a properly built chimney cap. It does not deter animal intrustion , and while it may block some direct rain from above, but it does not give the same protection as a fitted stainless-steel cap with screening, proper height, and a drip edge designed to shed water away from the masonry.
After the liner work was completed, we replaced the old bluestone cover with a custom stainless-steel multi-flue cap. The new cap was measured and fabricated for this chimney, giving the flues room to vent while helping protect the top of the chimney from water, animals, and debris.
On a chimney like this, the cap is not just for looks. It is part of protecting the repair and keeping the chimney system in better condition long term.
Protecting the Chimney for Years to Come
By combining a new stainless-steel liner with a custom multi-flue cap, we addressed both the internal venting issues and the exterior protection needs of this chimney. The completed system now vents efficiently and stands better protected against moisture-related deterioration.
If you are experiencing condensation issues, deteriorating flue materials, or need new chimney caps in Shelton, CT, our team can help.
Cement Crown in Litchfield CT
Chimney Crown Repair in Mystic CT
Minor chimney crown repair in Mystic, Ct. Customer called to get a second opinion on masonry repair as they were given an estimate to rebuild the top of the chimney. Often, that is the solution to broken masonry, but in this case, you can see the chimney is solid, the crown thick and actually reinforced, and the rest of the chimney mortar intact with very minor erosion. The top tiles are also in good condition. There are cracks in the crown, and it is lifting, but ultimately a solid structure. But it is not water tight and water will get into those cracks and during freeze/thaw cycles expand/contract and further break the masonry in areas you can see, and areas inside the chimney that you can’t.
Our solution was to use our crown coat product https://safesidechimney.com/chimney-crown-repair/, a water impermeable membrane that does not allow water to penetrate, and seals all the cracks, including the lifting of the crown. The chimney cap is installed to keep water out of the venting systems and chimney is good to go. This can be done right off the roof, without needing to set up extensive staging, like needed when doing demolition or laying of new heavy mortar. Another happy customer in Mystic, ct
Safeside Repairs Crumbling Chimney in Milford, CT
We were scheduled for a chimney repair for a customer in Milford, CT. The customer contacted Safeside Chimney, because he noticed that some of the bricks were starting to crumble, which concerned the customer.
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It is a good thing the customer called us, because when a chimney has crumbling bricks it is a danger for the homeowner. The Safeside Chimney crew arrived at the home, and immediately went on the roof to inspect the chimney. The crew noticed immediately that the chimney cap had a crack in it and it needed replaced, then the crew looked at the damaged bricks and knew they’d be able to match the bricks perfectly, which was also a concern to the customer. The crew removed the crumbling bricks, then repaired the area, so that this problem wouldn’t occur again in the future.
The new matching bricks were carefully put back into place. Once the brick repair was completed the Safeside Chimney crew installed a new chimney cap onto the chimney. The new chimney cap will keep any rainwater and debris from entering the chimney, and keep the bricks from receiving any damage. The chimney cap will also prevent any animals from making a home inside the chimney, which is a common problem that occurs when there is no chimney cap on the chimney. All of the repairs were completed for the homeowner in Milford, and the repairs will provide any further damages to the chimney for the customer. These repairs were done within just a few hours.
The Importance of a Chimney Cap
A chimney cap is important. It is the finishing element of a chimney. A chimney cap will prevent snow, debris, rain and even animals from entering your chimney. There are many benefits of a chimney cap, which includes:
- Prevents any moisture from entering the chimney: When moisture enters the chimney it can cause the water to get inside the brickwork or go inside the attic, which can cause damage to your home.
- Prevents downdrafts: A chimney cap will prevent downdrafts from entering your home. A downdraft will make your home fill up with smoke, which is unhealthy. The cap will also prevent cold air from entering your home, which keeps the home from unwanted drafts.
- Prevents animals from entering the chimney: Birds, squirrels, and raccoons are drawn to the chimney, because of the warmth and privacy the chimney can provide. An uncovered chimney start to build a nest, then blockage will occur.
- Prevents fires: The wire mesh on the chimney caps prevents sparks from creating a fire on your roof. The cap will deflect sparks keeping your home safe from fires.
There are different types of chimney caps for homeowners to choose from. You should always have a professional install your chimney cap. The opening of the chimney will need to be measured, so the exact size of cap is installed. The cap will be tightened down, then a caulk will be added around the base, so no water escapes to the chimney. This is definitely a job for a trained professional. You don’t want to trust your family and home to just anyone.
Safeside Chimney is the professionals to call to have your chimney cap installed. We offer a free inspection to determine if your current cap is effective. Give us a call today. The benefits are numerous.
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What Does a Chimney Cap Do?
Chimneys keep a home warm and cozy along with adding appeal and beauty to any home. A homeowner wants to provide warmth to their family along with safety, and that is why it is important for every chimney to have a chimney cap.
A chimney cap is a metal box that sits on top of a chimney. The benefits of one include:
- A chimney cap will prevent rainwater from entering the chimney liner. Rainwater can damage cause deterioration to the liner and the chimney.
- The chimney cap will prevent limbs, leaves and debris from entering your chimney.
- A chimney cap will prevent wildlife from entering your chimney. Birds, squirrels and raccoons are always looking for a place to build their nest, and the chimney is the perfect choice for these animals. The chimney never has any people around it and the animals have a dark, quiet place to live. A chimney cap will prevent any wildlife from building a nest in your chimney.
- A chimney cap can prevent a fire. Embers can fly up the chimney, then land on your roof. This is dangerous and deadly, but a chimney cap prevents embers from exiting the chimney.
- The chimney cap can promote a long life to your chimney liner. The chimney cap will keep rain and debris from entering the liner. These items cause damage to a chimney liner.
A chimney cap is affordable and will save a homeowner costly repairs later. It should be installed by a professional who is trained and qualified. Safeside Chimney are the professionals to install your chimney cap. Give them a call today!
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