How to Measure for a Chimney Cap

Chimney caps serve as both decorative and functional elements for your home, enhancing the lifespan of your fireplace, preventing chimney damage, and keeping hazards at bay. At ChimneyCaps.com, we offer a variety of caps in stainless steel, marine grade stainless steel, and copper, designed to suit different styles and needs.

Why Chimney Caps are Essential

Chimney caps act as a shield on top of your chimney crown, protecting your home from rain, snow, debris, and wildlife. By preventing these elements from entering, they safeguard your flue, liner, and dampers from damage and potential blockages. Additionally, chimney caps help prevent sparks from escaping your chimney and causing roof fires.

Measuring for the Right Fit

Accurate measurements are crucial for selecting the perfect chimney cap. Here’s a detailed guide to help you measure your chimney correctly:

Gather Your Tools

  • Sturdy ladder

  • Work gloves

  • Power drill or screwdriver

  • Tape measure

  • Pencil and paper

Identify Your Flue Type

Once on the roof, identify the type of flue you have. Flues are typically clay or metal tubes extending from the chimney top. Masonry fireplaces often have clay flues, while factory-built ones have metal flues. If you have multiple flues, decide whether to use individual caps for each or a single large cap covering all flues.

Pro Tip: For round flues, measure the diameter instead of length and width.

Measuring a Single-Flue Chimney

Single-flue chimneys usually need an outside-mounted cap, similar to a shoebox lid. Determine whether your liner is proud (protruding) or flush with the cement crown.

  • Proud Liner: Measure the outside length, width, and height of the liner.

  • Flush Liner: Measure the inside length, width, and height of the liner.

    Measure twice to ensure accuracy.