Storm Collars Archives - Atlas Chimney

What Does a Storm Collar Do?

Keeping water out of your chimney is a very important task for homeowners. This is because of the amount of damage that can be caused by water penetration, according to the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA). To be successful with this task, you have several options of preventative measures to take that can protect your chimney from water damage. One of these options is a customized flashing system. This keeps water from entering at the point where the chimney meets the roof.

If you have a prefabricated chimney, your flashing system should include a storm collar. This is similar to a chimney cap on a masonry chimney. If you live in the Austin area, Atlas Chimney specializes in protecting both masonry and prefabricated chimneys from water penetration damage. We offer several preventive services, including professional storm collar and customized flashing installation. Now, we would like to tell you more about the importance of storm collars.

What is a storm collar?

A prefabricated chimney is different from a masonry chimney because it exhausts through a metal pipe instead of a masonry structure. A storm collar is a circular piece of metal that fits on the round pipe of a prefabricated chimney just above the flashing system. It serves the important purpose of keeping water from rain and melted ice and snow from being able to enter through the opening where the pipe comes out of the flashing system.

How do I know if I need a new storm collar?

Unfortunately, even the most durable storm collars do not last forever. Over years of exposure to the elements, they can suffer from corrosion damage which can lead to the metal cracking and breaking apart. This can create gaps that allow water to enter your home. You may notice water in your attic or even see water stains on the ceiling by the fireplace. These are both signs that your storm collar should be replaced by a professional chimney technician.

Why do I need a chimney professional to install my storm collar?

A storm collar should be professionally installed. This ensures it will provide the proper protection needed to keep water out of your chimney. You can trust Atlas Chimney to correctly position the collar onto the pipe before screwing it into place. We will also waterproof the upper edge of the collar with sealant. That way water cannot leak in between the collar and the chimney pipe.

A storm collar can protect your prefabricated chimney from water leaks. Contact us today at Atlas Chimney to schedule an appointment for our professional chimney collar installation services!

The Importance of Storm Collars

Stopping water penetration of your chimney is an important responsibility for homeowners. Water can leak into your chimney and cause a lot of destruction to your home. Consequently, this includes the corrosion of metal components. Including components like the damper and chimney liner and the staining of ceilings and walls. Plus, even the rotting of the wooden structures which are adjacent to the chimney.

Water not only damages your chimney and home. In addition, the presence of moisture in your chimney can also lead to mold growth. Since it rains quite a bit in Austin, TX, Atlas Chimney has been working for over 25 years on preventing chimney water leaks. We know the best methods of keeping water out of your chimney and we will ensure your chimney is leak-proof. One of the best preventive measures we use is a storm collar as part of a flashing system. We would like to tell you more about storm collars. Also, how they are an important part of a good flashing system to protect your chimney from water penetration.

What exactly is a storm collar?

A storm collar is also known as a chimney collar. It is most often used with prefabricated chimneys. This is to prevent rain from getting into the space where the chimney pipe meets the roof. It is usually built into the flashing system around the chimney. Comparable to a chimney cap for masonry chimneys, storm collars are different because instead of sitting at the top of the chimney like a cap does, they fit directly onto the chimney pipe.

How long will my storm collar last?

While storm collars are durable, they do not last forever. Eventually you will have to replace your storm collar. Notice water in the attic or water stains on the ceiling in the room of your fireplace? If so, it is time to replace your storm collar, according to the Home Guides at SF Gate.

Why do I need a flashing system?

The area around your chimney where it meets the roof is very vulnerable and needs to be protected by a flashing system. This is constructed of sheets of metal that are strategically layered on the roof and wrapped around the chimney. Providing a watertight barrier, water from rain and snow will be unable to enter at this point. Not only does Atlas Chimney repair flashing systems, but we can also construct new customized flashing systems. This will stop water from leaking into your chimney. When our customers have a prefabricated chimney that consists of a metal pipe, a storm collar will always be used as an important part of the flashing system.

Prevent water penetration of your chimney this spring. Contact us at Atlas Chimney to learn more about storm collars and our flashing system services!

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