Chimney anatomy
Every part of a chimney, what it does and what goes wrong with it.
PART 01
Chimney cap
The chimney cap sits at the top of the chimney, keeping out rain and debris while preventing animals from entering.
- Can rust or deteriorate over time
- May become dislodged or lose its secure fit
- Mesh can get clogged with debris
PART 02
Crown
The crown is a concrete slab that covers the top of the chimney, protecting it from weather damage.
- Cracks can develop, leading to water leaks
- Deterioration from exposure to elements
- Poor construction can lead to inefficient protection
PART 03
Flashing
Flashing is a waterproofing material that seals the space between the chimney and the roof, preventing leaks.
- Can become loose or warped
- Corrosion over time
- Improper installation leading to leaks
PART 04
Brick and mortar
Brick and mortar make up the exterior structure of the chimney, providing stability and protection.
- Cracks in the mortar joints
- Spalling or flaking of bricks
- Water damage leading to structural issues
PART 05
Flue liner
A flue liner is a clay or metal conduit that runs inside the chimney, carrying combustion gases out of the home.
- Cracks or damage from heat
- Corrosion over time
- Improper sizing affecting performance
PART 06
Smoke chamber
The smoke chamber is a section above the firebox where smoke gathers before it exits through the flue.
- Creosote buildup can occur
- Cracks may form over time
- Improper construction can affect smoke flow
PART 07
Damper
The damper regulates airflow in and out of the chimney, helping control the fire and draft.
- Rust can prevent proper sealing
- May warp or become misaligned
- Debris buildup can hinder operation
PART 08
Firebox
The firebox is where the actual fire burns and is built to withstand high temperatures.
- Cracks in the bricks from heat
- Mortar joints can deteriorate
- Buildup of soot or creosote
01 · Chimney cap
The chimney cap sits at the top of the chimney, keeping out rain and debris while preventing animals from entering.
- Can rust or deteriorate over time
- May become dislodged or lose its secure fit
- Mesh can get clogged with debris
02 · Crown
The crown is a concrete slab that covers the top of the chimney, protecting it from weather damage.
- Cracks can develop, leading to water leaks
- Deterioration from exposure to elements
- Poor construction can lead to inefficient protection
03 · Flashing
Flashing is a waterproofing material that seals the space between the chimney and the roof, preventing leaks.
- Can become loose or warped
- Corrosion over time
- Improper installation leading to leaks
04 · Brick and mortar
Brick and mortar make up the exterior structure of the chimney, providing stability and protection.
- Cracks in the mortar joints
- Spalling or flaking of bricks
- Water damage leading to structural issues
05 · Flue liner
A flue liner is a clay or metal conduit that runs inside the chimney, carrying combustion gases out of the home.
- Cracks or damage from heat
- Corrosion over time
- Improper sizing affecting performance
06 · Smoke chamber
The smoke chamber is a section above the firebox where smoke gathers before it exits through the flue.
- Creosote buildup can occur
- Cracks may form over time
- Improper construction can affect smoke flow
07 · Damper
The damper regulates airflow in and out of the chimney, helping control the fire and draft.
- Rust can prevent proper sealing
- May warp or become misaligned
- Debris buildup can hinder operation
08 · Firebox
The firebox is where the actual fire burns and is built to withstand high temperatures.
- Cracks in the bricks from heat
- Mortar joints can deteriorate
- Buildup of soot or creosote