What a cap does
An uncapped flue is an open pipe into the house. Rain runs straight down it and rusts the damper. Raccoons, squirrels and birds move in. Leaves collect above the damper. The mesh on a cap also stops sparks from landing on the roof, and the hood cuts down on wind blowing smoke back into the room.
Caps for brick chimneys
A single-flue cap fits over one flue tile and runs $325 to $575 depending on size and style. Where several flues share one chimney, a single cap usually covers them all, with or without a drop edge that hangs over the sides, for $475 to $3,500. We measure before ordering so the cap fits without gaps.
Copper caps
For older homes, or anyone who wants the top of the chimney to look finished, we have copper caps built to fit. They run $5,000 to $7,000.
Top-mount dampers
A top-mount damper is a spring-loaded lid at the top of the flue. Pull a cable in the firebox and it shuts tight, so heated air stays inside between fires. Release it and it springs open for the next fire. Installed, it's $1,200 to $1,450.
Chase covers
Framed chimneys have a metal lid called a chase cover instead of a concrete crown. Older galvanized covers rust, sag and hold water, which then finds its way into the framing. We measure yours and have a stainless steel cover made to fit, for $1,400 to $3,200.
Small fixes
A storm collar is the ring that seals around a metal flue pipe where it comes through the flashing. Replacing one is $60. If you'd like a cap painted to match the trim, we quote that separately.
