Chimney Work
Pots
- Replace pots that are broken or missing.
- Pots give a chimney better airflow and stronger draw.
- Prevent too much rain from causing damp in chimneys and soot ingression.
Cowls
- Good way of solving chimney problems.
- Stop birds and squirrels getting in and falling down the chimney.
- Stop birds nesting in chimneys.
- Prevent heavy rain, hail and wind causing soot and debris to fall down the chimney.
- Some cowls prevent downdraught.
- Some cowls improve draw of chimney.
Incorrect Cowl
- Often I find that an unsuitable cowl has been installed on a chimney pot. This could be that the appliance in the fireplace has changed and what was correct for the previous appliance is no longer correct for the new appliance, and is possibly dangerous.
- If a new appliance is commissioned, it is important for the chimney to be swept and inspected. The Sweep should then issue a full safety certificate. This is for insurance reasons as well as for your peace of mind.
Caps
- • For disused chimneys, there are caps, which stop birds, squirrels and weather from causing problems while allowing enough air to circulate and keep the chimney dry.
Remove old chimney liner
Some chimneys have stainless steel liners. These will break down with age and need to be replaced. This happens within 12 to 15 years, depending on how often the appliance is used and provided the right appliance is fitted to the correct liner.
Remove plant life from chimney pot
Due to a chimney that remains open and not being used for a significant period of time, birds can drop seeds down chimneys and plants grow out of the chimney. I have also found that chimneys that haven't been used for a significant amount of time have cement-filled chimney pots.