Saturday, December 7, 2013

Prevent Moisture Damage By Consulting Custom Copper Chimney Caps Greenville SC Contractors

By Leanne Goff


Chimneys perform vital functions of extracting and expelling noxious fumes from burning fuels and fireplaces in a home. Proper maintenance is needed to extend the life of these household service systems. Capping the upper parts of the stack with help of custom copper chimney caps Greenville SC contractors protects the flue from weather damage, something that extends the lifespan of these systems.

Moisture is one of the aspects, which wreck havoc in buildings. The moisture entering homes through chimneys can lead to other problems within these systems and the home at large. Moisture damages the liners of flues and opens up the surfaces for more infiltration of the dampness.

When moisture enters the flue, it may damage the lining wall allowing it to penetrate and spread to other areas. In addition, the moisture mixes with soot, creosote, and gases forming acidic substances, which eat away the liners, and damage the masonry work. Wind also blows through the uncapped chimneys creating downdrafts. This leads to increased smoke flowing back to the house while at the same time causes cold air to enter the house.

Most of these materials are adversely affected when they come in direct contact with water. As the rainwater penetrates the flue, it mixes with the gases, soot, creosote, and other substances inside the smoke extraction flue, and forms acidic substances, which begin to wear out the surfaces. Accelerated deterioration will result if the top part of flue stack remains open.

Creatures tend to find a safe haven in uncapped chimneys. They enter through the open space and reside inside chimneys. These animals create more problems within flues. Bats, birds, snakes, raccoons, and squirrels may enter inside chimney causing various problems. Snakes risk your family in sustaining bites while bats and birds may bring in nest materials like grass and leaves thus clogging the flue.

The animals are attracted by the warm temperatures in chimneys. When trapped inside, they die, and the carcass causes bad smell. These creatures also bring in nesting materials like dry grass and leaves, which can increase the risks of fires inside chimneys. When fires occur in chimneys, they lead to thermal shock, which causes the liners and walls of flues to deteriorate fast.

Chimneys are often neglected and not accorded the same attention as other service systems in homes. If you do not take proper care of chimneys, they will deteriorate fast and increase the cost of maintenance and replacement. Copper caps are durable and last for many decades when installed in chimneys. They are also beautiful and with the appealing texture and color, they can increase the curb appeal of your home.

The natural oxidation of this metal capping helps increase its durability and strength thus surviving for decades. In addition, capping prevent fires that are caused by embers flying up the flues to the surrounding environment. By consulting custom copper chimney caps Greenville SC designers and contractors, you enhance safety and health of people living in the house by preventing small animal and creatures from entering the flue. You also reduce water damage, which is caused by moisture that enters your flue from the chimney stack at the top.




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