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How to
Do It: Chimney Cap Sealer
If you have decided to invest in a chimney cap, you will
need to know how to install your chimney cap. Chimney cap
sealer application is part of that installation process.
While your chimney cap keeps moisture, rain, and debris out
of your chimney, chimney cap sealer will prevent any
moisture, rain or debris from getting into the chimney cap
area and causing it to rot, come loose or even fall off the
roof.
Begin by reading the instructions for your chimney cap
thoroughly. If there are installation instructions with your
chimney cap, look for the place where they address the
application of chimney cap sealer. Make sure that the
instructions are complete, and then follow them to the
letter. The manufacturers instructions are important because
some manufactures' chimney caps need to be installed in a
specific way. By not following the manufacturer's
instructions, you could ruin your chimney cap, and by not
properly using the chimney cap sealer, you could void any
warranty for the chimney cap itself.
Tips for Applying Chimney Cap Sealer
If you have a round flue that is made of tile, you may want
to consider purchasing an inside mount chimney cap; these
will, of course, mount on the inside of the flue. For inside
mount chimney caps, chimney cap sealer is of the utmost
importance because these are the types of chimney caps that
are the most susceptible to moisture and degradation. Use
the chimney cap sealer to completely seal the around the
joint. Silicone sealer can be used on tile flues, but not on
metal flues. Metal flues conduct more heat than tile flues,
and the hot metal can cause the sealer to melt.
For those who are afraid of heights, you should consider
having a professional contractor install your chimney cap.
While the application of the chimney cap sealer and the
installation of the cap itself doesn't take a long time, it
can be very upsetting to some people to be on a roof even
for a few minutes. If you do complete the project on your
own, be sure to take all necessary precautions and use
safety equipment if and when it is needed. |