Wind Directional Chimney Caps

Professional Installation Guide

Essential Tools & Safety

Before starting, gather these tools: sturdy ladder extending 3 feet above your roof, work gloves, power drill or screwdriver, tape measure, pencil, and paper. Safety first: Have someone hold the ladder and never work alone on the roof.

Step-by-Step Measuring Instructions

Single Flue Chimneys (Most Common)

• Extended Round Flues: Measure outside diameter of pipe extending above crown
• Extended Square/Rectangle: Measure length and width of outside edges of flue tile
• Flush Flues: Measure inside dimensions if flue is flush with crown

Air Cooled vs Non-Air Cooled Systems

• Air Cooled: Look for visible air space between inner and outer walls. Measure both inside diameter (for cap fit) and outside diameter (for adapter)
• Non-Air Cooled: Solid pipe with no visible air space. Measure outside diameter only

Multi-Flue Chimneys

• Measure length and width covering all flues from outermost edges
• Measure entire cement crown dimensions
• Measure height of tallest flue (cap must be 5+ inches above tallest flue)
• Account for 1.5-inch flanges when calculating total coverage needed

Professional Installation Steps

1. Safety Setup: Position ladder securely with spotter, use proper safety equipment
2. Measurement Verification: Double-check all measurements on-site before installation
3. Surface Preparation: Ensure chimney surface is clean, dry, and structurally sound
4. Cap Positioning: Center cap properly, ensuring adequate clearance for rotation
5. Secure Installation: Use appropriate fasteners for your chimney type (masonry screws for crown, clamps for pipes)
6. Seal Connections: Apply high-temperature silicone caulk around crown-mounted caps
7. Function Test: Verify cap rotates freely and wind vane operates correctly
8. Final Inspection: Check all connections and ensure no gaps for debris entry

Common Sizing Guidelines

Standard Masonry Sizes: Common clay flue tiles include 8"×8", 8"×13", 13"×13", 8"×17", and 13"×17". Most caps accommodate a 1-inch range (e.g., 8"×8" cap fits 7.5" to 9.5" flues).

Round Metal Pipe Sizes: Available from 5" to 14" diameter. Wind directional caps typically fit outside diameter with clamp systems.

Maintenance & Care Guide

Essential Annual Maintenance

Wind directional chimney caps require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and prevent dangerous malfunctions.

Cleaning Schedule

• Monthly During Use: Visual inspection for debris buildup
• Mid-Season: Remove leaves, twigs, and snow accumulation
• Annual Deep Clean: Complete disassembly and thorough cleaning
• Post-Storm: Check for damage after severe weather

Creosote Buildup Prevention

Critical Warning: Creosote buildup on rotating mechanisms can freeze the cap in position, potentially funneling wind directly down your chimney and filling your home with smoke.

• Burn Seasoned Hardwood: 18% moisture content or less reduces creosote production
• Maintain Hot Fires: Higher combustion temperatures minimize condensation
• Annual Professional Cleaning: Remove creosote deposits before they harden
• Apply Anti-Seize Compound: Use Bostik High Temp Stainless Anti-Seize on rotating brackets annually

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Safety Preparation: Ensure fireplace is completely cool, use proper ladder safety
2. Initial Inspection: Check for creosote buildup, rust, loose screws, or damaged components
3. Screen Cleaning: Use stiff wire brush to remove soot and debris from mesh screens
4. Mechanism Cleaning: Clean rotating parts with vinegar solution for light buildup
5. Heavy Buildup: For glazed creosote, professional removal may be required
6. Lubrication: Apply high-temperature anti-seize compound to moving parts
7. Function Test: Ensure cap rotates freely and wind vane operates correctly

Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Attention

• Cap Won't Rotate: Indicates creosote freeze or mechanical failure
• Smoke Entering Home: May indicate cap stuck in wrong position
• Visible Tar-Like Buildup: Stage 2-3 creosote requiring professional cleaning
• Reduced Draft Performance: Screen may be clogged with debris
• Rust or Corrosion: Structural integrity may be compromised

Professional Recommendation: If your chimney produces significant creosote, remove and clean the cap every time you sweep the chimney to prevent dangerous malfunctions.

Why Choose ChimCare Wind Directional Chimney Caps?

• Made in USA - Superior craftsmanship and quality control
• Lifetime Warranty - Confidence in our product durability
• Professional Grade - Heavy-duty construction for extreme weather
• Expert Support - Technical assistance for proper sizing and installation
• Fast Shipping - In-stock items ship within 1-2 business days