A chimney can be intimidating. After all, it’s not something you have ever thought much about and it’s not exactly the easiest to-do on your home maintenance list. Should you just ignore it and assume it's fine? Definitely not! This "forget it" mindset could have dire consequences when it comes to your family’s safety. Though it’s not pleasant to think about, house fires do happen. It's best to learn what your chimney needs in order to be safe and clean. 

One of the most important things to consider is a chimney cap. A chimney cap plays an important role in your home’s chimney system. If your home doesn't already have one, here are just a few of the reasons why you should consider installing a chimney cap:

#1 It stops sparks and embers

You may have heard some people refer to a chimney cap as a "spark arrestors." This essentially means that the chimney cap helps to prevent lit embers or sparks that travel up the chimney from landing on the roof. The reason you want to avoid this is pretty obvious. Your home could catch on fire!

#2 It prevents debris build-up

Smoke goes out of your chimney, but what comes in? If you don't have a chimney cap in place, you can't really know. Leaves, branches, twigs and other debris can enter your chimney and build up, causing a big problem down the line.

#3 It reduces moisture

You don't always have a fire lit. A chimney cap will keep rain water from coming down your home’s chimney. Rain water can damage chimneys with stainless steel liners, chimney dampers, and chimney mortar joints. Beyond the damage from the rain itself, moisture from the outside environment can produce mold and mildew. 

#4 Animals won't be able to get in

Animals like birds, raccoons, rats, mice, and squirrels often try to make their homes within chimneys. After all, it's pretty warm and cozy! These animals may enter the chimney but won’t be able to exit, eventually dying. An unpleasant odor in your home is the least of your worries if you have a dead animal trapped in your chimney! A chimney cap, sized properly, will ensure animals cannot get into your chimney.

You know those little luxuries that seem unnecessary at first, but once you start using them quickly become totally essential? Think about a world before television remotes or automobiles. Now, it seems like the end of the world when your WiFi doesn't work. For many homeowners, chimney caps are in the same category. They simply cannot imagine a life without one! Thankfully, Fireside Chimney Supplies makes it incredibly easy to order yours. A chimney cap is easy to buy online and easy to install once it arrives. This DIY project will protect your investment, keep the unpleasant stuff out, and let the smoke travel away from your home. It is perfect!