What`s a flue cap spark arrestor and why the heck do I need one?
By: Safeguard Chimney - 2/15/2010
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Over the years I have noticed one item of extreme importance that most chimneys do not have......a flue cap spark arrestor! And the most common response when asked why not is.....drum roll please.......what's that and why do I need one? So today I have decided to answer the question that is on everyones mind you guessed it ..What's a flue cap spark arrestor and why do I need one!!!
A flue cap spark arrestor, from now on to be known as a FCSA, is a metal cap that is bolted to the top of your chimney flue. It can be different shapes and sizes depending on various factors. The size of your flue, and whether it is a masonry or prefabricated chimney are the two major factors that will determine what kind of flue cap you need. However, there are 2 components that every FCSA share, a way to keep water, debris and wildlife out of your chimney and a way to keep sparks in.
I can not tell you how many times we have pulled birds nests, raccoons, and squirrels out of a chimney. Not to mention the number of calls we have gotten from people asking us how to get birds and bats that have flown down an open flue, out of their home. Many times when we are called
to a persons home to remove a trapped animal from the chimney it has died, but there is the occasional time when it is still alive and that creates a whole different set of problems, lets just suffice it to say you don't want animals to get in your chimney!
Water damage is another problem that a FCSA can help prevent. Water running down the inside of your chimney can cause mineral build up and can accelerate the deterioration of your chimney resulting in costly repairs.
A FCSA will also prevent downdrafts and promote a good, strong draw, making your fireplace more efficient.
Now of course no one wants leaves,twigs and other debris from getting in their chimney..that's a no-brainer and although wildlife and water can create problems and costly repairs, one of the most important reasons for having a FCSA is it will prevent sparks from escaping your flue and landing on your roof possibly resulting in a fire that could destroy your entire home and cause you to lose every possesion in it. It is for this reason that FCSA's are a code requirement in almost every city.
So if you do not have a FCSA you need to get one..Now. Even if you don't use your fireplace and are not worried about the threat of fire you don't want to have to call us one day asking what the squeaking that is coming from your chimney is from. It is a small investment that can result in big savings.
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