<![CDATA[CHIMNEY SWEEP OF WEST VIRGINIA - Blog]]>Fri, 28 Aug 2026 20:41:18 -0400Weebly<![CDATA[Chase Covers]]>Sun, 05 Jul 2026 14:19:50 GMThttps://www.chimneysweepwv.com/blog/chase-covers​Why Chase Covers Matter: Protecting Your Chimney from the Top DownWhen it comes to chimney maintenance in West Virginia, most homeowners think about chimney cleaning, chimney inspections, or installing a chimney cap. However, one of the most overlooked—and most important—parts of your chimney system is the chase cover.
At Chimney Sweep of West Virginia, we frequently find rusted, damaged, or improperly installed chase covers that have allowed water to cause expensive damage. Understanding the importance of this simple component can save you thousands of dollars in future chimney repairs.
What Is a Chase Cover?A chase cover is a metal covering installed on top of a prefabricated or factory-built chimney. It acts like a roof over the chimney chase, sealing the opening around the flue and preventing water from entering the structure.
A properly installed chase cover helps protect your entire chimney system from rain, snow, debris, and unwanted animals.
Why Is a Chase Cover So Important?Prevents Costly Water DamageWater is the number one cause of chimney deterioration. A leaking chase cover allows moisture to enter the chase, which can lead to:
  • Wood rot
  • Mold and mildew
  • Interior ceiling stains
  • Structural damage
  • Expensive chimney repairs
Many homeowners don't realize they have a chimney leak until the damage has already spread.
Extends the Life of Your ChimneyMost builder-grade chase covers are made from thin galvanized steel that eventually rusts. Replacing them with a custom stainless steel chase cover provides decades of protection and significantly extends the life of your chimney.
Keeps Birds and Animals OutA damaged chase cover creates easy access for birds, squirrels, raccoons, and other wildlife. Keeping animals out helps prevent:
  • Blocked flues
  • Nesting materials
  • Unpleasant odors
  • Potential fire hazards
Protects Your Fireplace InvestmentMoisture can damage chimney liners, fireplace components, framing, insulation, and other parts of your chimney system. Preventing water intrusion helps your fireplace operate safely and efficiently for years to come.
Signs You Need Chase Cover ReplacementYou may need a chase cover replacement if you notice:
  • Rust or corrosion
  • Standing water on top of the chase
  • Cracks or holes
  • Sagging metal
  • Water stains near your fireplace
  • Dripping sounds after heavy rain
A professional chimney inspection can quickly determine whether your chase cover is still protecting your home.
Protect Your Home Before Small Problems Become Big OnesReplacing a worn chase cover is one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent major chimney leak repair and water damage. Investing in a custom stainless steel chase cover today can save you thousands in future repairs.
At Chimney Sweep of West Virginia, we specialize in:
  • Chimney inspections
  • Chimney cleaning
  • Chase cover replacement
  • Stainless steel chase covers
  • Chimney waterproofing
  • Chimney caps
  • Chimney liner installation
  • Wood stove installation
We proudly serve homeowners throughout southern and central West Virginia with honest service and quality workmanship.
Schedule Your Chimney Inspection TodayIf you suspect your chase cover is damaged—or if it's been several years since your last chimney inspection—now is the perfect time to have it checked.
Protect your home from water damage before the next storm. Contact Chimney Sweep of West Virginia today to schedule your inspection and keep your chimney performing safely year-round.
]]><![CDATA[rust and stain removal]]>Thu, 07 Sep 2017 16:16:12 GMThttps://www.chimneysweepwv.com/blog/rust-and-stain-removal
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Often, chimney caps that are not stainless will start to rust and will stain the bricks and mortar of your chimney. CSWV can remove these stains for roughly $4 a square foot and have your chimney looking great again! 
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]]><![CDATA[Chimney Caps]]>Thu, 29 Jan 2015 18:01:13 GMThttps://www.chimneysweepwv.com/blog/chimney-caps
A chimney cap is an inexpensive and much needed installation. The truth is that this small amount of metal protecting your chimney can prevent numerous mishaps from taking place and save a homeowner thousands of dollars in unnecessary chimney repairs. A properly installed chimney cap  will prevent animals from entering your home, keep the moisture out, and protect your roof from burning embers. This will save you money and headaches down the road.

Animals
Animals frequently make their nests close to or inside chimney flues. These nests can block the path for what usually goes out of the top of the chimney. Typically smoke and gases from the fire below will exit the home through the chimney. With large squirrel or bird nests in the way, these harmful gases will end up backed up into the rooms of your home.

Moisture
Rain, snow, and ice can create problems for your chimney if they are allowed in the chimney flue. Moisture causes deterioration problems within the structure of your chimney. The back and forth of freezing and melting of ice is especially hard on the masonry chimney walls, chimney crown and chimney liner. This could lead to costly repairs. Therefore, it is best to not allow the excess moisture into the chimney in the first place by diverting the elements away with a cap that is right for your chimney.

Embers
Burning embers from the fire below get sent up and out of the chimney along with the burning gases. These pieces of the fire can escape out of the top of the chimney and can cause damage to your roof and even possibly start a fire . These problems are entirely avoidable with the addition of a chimney cap and spark guard.

]]><![CDATA[January 29th, 2015]]>Thu, 29 Jan 2015 17:57:21 GMThttps://www.chimneysweepwv.com/blog/january-29th-2015