Chimney anatomy
Every part of a chimney, what it does and what goes wrong with it.
PART 01
Chimney cap
A chimney cap sits at the very top of your chimney. It prevents rain, debris, and animals from entering your chimney.
- Rust or corrosion
- Dislodging due to strong winds
- Blockages if not properly installed
PART 02
Crown
The crown is a slab of concrete or mortar on top of the chimney that protects the bricks and mortar from weather damage.
- Cracking due to temperature changes
- Erosion from rainwater
- Poor sealing allowing moisture penetration
PART 03
Flashing
Flashing is the metal barrier that seals the joint between the chimney and the roof, preventing water from seeping in.
- Corrosion leading to leaks
- Improper installation causing gaps
- Damage from weather or animals
PART 04
Brick and mortar
These are the main structural elements of your chimney, providing stability and support.
- Cracking from freeze-thaw cycles
- Erosion over time
- Efflorescence or white staining
PART 05
Flue liner
The flue liner protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion and ensures proper air passage.
- Cracking or deterioration
- Improper sizing
- Blockages from creosote buildup
PART 06
Smoke chamber
The smoke chamber is located above the firebox, where smoke and gases are directed into the flue.
- Creosote buildup
- Cracks or gaps allowing smoke leakage
- Improper construction or sizing
PART 07
Damper
The damper sits above the firebox and controls airflow, conserving energy and preventing outside air from entering when not in use.
- Sticking due to rust or debris
- Improper sealing
- Misalignment causing drafts
PART 08
Firebox
This is where the fire burns and is constructed to withstand high temperatures.
- Cracked or damaged firebricks
- Mortar joints deteriorating
- Soot and ash accumulation
01 · Chimney cap
A chimney cap sits at the very top of your chimney. It prevents rain, debris, and animals from entering your chimney.
- Rust or corrosion
- Dislodging due to strong winds
- Blockages if not properly installed
02 · Crown
The crown is a slab of concrete or mortar on top of the chimney that protects the bricks and mortar from weather damage.
- Cracking due to temperature changes
- Erosion from rainwater
- Poor sealing allowing moisture penetration
03 · Flashing
Flashing is the metal barrier that seals the joint between the chimney and the roof, preventing water from seeping in.
- Corrosion leading to leaks
- Improper installation causing gaps
- Damage from weather or animals
04 · Brick and mortar
These are the main structural elements of your chimney, providing stability and support.
- Cracking from freeze-thaw cycles
- Erosion over time
- Efflorescence or white staining
05 · Flue liner
The flue liner protects the chimney walls from heat and corrosion and ensures proper air passage.
- Cracking or deterioration
- Improper sizing
- Blockages from creosote buildup
06 · Smoke chamber
The smoke chamber is located above the firebox, where smoke and gases are directed into the flue.
- Creosote buildup
- Cracks or gaps allowing smoke leakage
- Improper construction or sizing
07 · Damper
The damper sits above the firebox and controls airflow, conserving energy and preventing outside air from entering when not in use.
- Sticking due to rust or debris
- Improper sealing
- Misalignment causing drafts
08 · Firebox
This is where the fire burns and is constructed to withstand high temperatures.
- Cracked or damaged firebricks
- Mortar joints deteriorating
- Soot and ash accumulation