Everything you need to know about chimney crowns.

A chimney crown is a huge block of brick or concrete that covers the top opening of the chimney protecting from water damage which enters through small cracks. These crowns are generally about three to four inches thick and slope to the side to direct rainwater and snow away from the chimney. Even though most chimney crowns are concrete, they can also be made of metal or stone. If constructed correctly, a chimney crown can last for a long time. However, if the crown is constructed poorly then its lifespan will be significantly reduced, and it may start to deteriorate, causing costly damage to your chimney. Repairing a chimney crown cost ranges depending on many factors including the scope of repair, part of your chimney that needs to be repaired, and  chimney’s material.

Here are a few types of chimney crowns:

• Cast-in-place: Cast-in-place crowns are suitable for larger chimneys. Made of concrete, these involve using steel forms or wood forms to construct the chimney crown on-site. 
• Precast: Also made of concrete precast crowns are ideal for 16×16 or smaller or new construction. Precast crowns are not suitable for larger and heavier chimney jobs as the weight of the concrete makes this option impractical for larger chimneys.
• Floating: Floating cast crowns also known as overhang crowns are constructed with an overhang that is approximately 1 1/2″ to 2″ above the chimney. Floating cast chimney crowns require more time and effort to install than the other options which also makes the service cost slightly higher. However, due to added protection and advantage floating cast crowns last twice as long making it worth the minor increase in cost.

Difference between chimney crown and chimney cap

Most people often get confused between the chimney crown and chimney cap as they are both located at the top of the chimney. However the difference is that a chimney crown is constructed at the last layer of chimney bricks whereas the chimney cap sits on top of it. Chimney crowns are not to be mistaken for the chimney caps that are metal that essentially cover the chimney flue and keep water, dust, debris, small animals, and birds from entering the chimney.

How to repair chimney crowns?

The chimney crown helps protect the chimney from harsh weather, however most people do not realize that the crown also has to be protected. If left unprotected, a chimney crown will eventually start to crack and deteriorate overtime. Cracks and spalling in a chimney can get worse fast, but the fix will be easy if you do it in time saving you from chimney crown replacement. Based on the size and severity of the cracks, you can use products to repair the crown, or you may also need to remove the old crown and build a new one. Remember to contact a pro who’s certified and trained on the technical side of chimney care for all of your crown repairs as even if you diy chimney crown you won’t be able to get the best results. 

Once the crown is checked, experts will determine the best solution for chimney crown repairing to get it back to its best shape. When replacing the crown, any damaged or loose pieces will be removed along with any debris, moss, or dirt. After the area is ready, the new concrete will then be mixed and poured with the proper correct thickness and slope in mind to help divert water away from the flue tiles and masonry sides.