Chimney anatomy
Every part of a chimney, what it does and what goes wrong with it.
PART 01
Chimney cap
A chimney cap sits on top of the chimney and helps to keep rain, debris, and animals from entering the flue.
- Damage from weather exposure
- Animals nesting under the cap
- Rust or corrosion over time
PART 02
Crown
The chimney crown is the top cement part of the chimney that protects the brick and mortar from weather damage.
- Cracks developing due to freeze-thaw cycles
- Water pooling leading to deterioration
- General wear and erosion over time
PART 03
Flashing
Flashing consists of metal strips that seal the joint between the chimney and roof, preventing water from seeping in.
- Rust or corrosion of the metal
- Improper installation leading to gaps
- Separation from the roof due to settling
PART 04
Brick and mortar
These are the materials that make up the structure of the chimney, providing stability and support.
- Cracking from weather exposure
- Deterioration of mortar joints
- Spalling due to moisture infiltration
PART 05
Flue liner
The flue liner is installed inside the chimney, designed to contain combustion particles and direct them outside.
- Cracking from heat exposure
- Blockage from creosote build-up
- Corrosion in metal liners
PART 06
Smoke chamber
Located above the firebox, the smoke chamber helps to compress smoke and gases and direct them into the flue.
- Creosote build-up
- Cracks developing over time
- Improper shape affecting draft
PART 07
Damper
The damper is a moveable plate in the chimney that controls the flow of air and smoke through the flue.
- Rust and corrosion
- Failure to open or close properly
- Air leaks when closed
PART 08
Firebox
This is the section of the fireplace where the fire burns, usually made of firebrick or other heat-resistant materials.
- Cracking from heat stress
- Loose or damaged bricks
- Deterioration of mortar
01 · Chimney cap
A chimney cap sits on top of the chimney and helps to keep rain, debris, and animals from entering the flue.
- Damage from weather exposure
- Animals nesting under the cap
- Rust or corrosion over time
02 · Crown
The chimney crown is the top cement part of the chimney that protects the brick and mortar from weather damage.
- Cracks developing due to freeze-thaw cycles
- Water pooling leading to deterioration
- General wear and erosion over time
03 · Flashing
Flashing consists of metal strips that seal the joint between the chimney and roof, preventing water from seeping in.
- Rust or corrosion of the metal
- Improper installation leading to gaps
- Separation from the roof due to settling
04 · Brick and mortar
These are the materials that make up the structure of the chimney, providing stability and support.
- Cracking from weather exposure
- Deterioration of mortar joints
- Spalling due to moisture infiltration
05 · Flue liner
The flue liner is installed inside the chimney, designed to contain combustion particles and direct them outside.
- Cracking from heat exposure
- Blockage from creosote build-up
- Corrosion in metal liners
06 · Smoke chamber
Located above the firebox, the smoke chamber helps to compress smoke and gases and direct them into the flue.
- Creosote build-up
- Cracks developing over time
- Improper shape affecting draft
07 · Damper
The damper is a moveable plate in the chimney that controls the flow of air and smoke through the flue.
- Rust and corrosion
- Failure to open or close properly
- Air leaks when closed
08 · Firebox
This is the section of the fireplace where the fire burns, usually made of firebrick or other heat-resistant materials.
- Cracking from heat stress
- Loose or damaged bricks
- Deterioration of mortar