Is Your Chimney Chase Cover Failing? Key Warning Signs to Watch For

A chimney chase cover is the metal cover that sits on top of a chimney. It helps keep rain, snow, animals, and debris from getting inside. Most original chimney covers were made with a flat top and thin metal. Over time, these covers can fail—and when they do, they can cause serious water damage to your chimney and even inside your home resulting in costly repairs.

Here are some signs it might be time to inspect or replace your chimney chase cover:

Flat Covers tend to puddle in the middle

1. Flat Covers That Sink in the Middle

Many original covers were made flat. Over time, heat, cold, and heavy snow can cause them to bend or sink in the middle. When that happens, water pools on top of the cover instead of running off. Standing water like this is a big problem. It can find its way into the flue and start causing rust, leaks, or damage to the inside of your chimney.

The picture above is a great example, you can see the rust marks where water has puddled over the years. The only barrier between that water and the inside of your home is the caulking around the flue. Once this caulking fails, water will find it’s way into the home.

2. Loose or Warped Covers

A cover that’s not tightly sealed to the top of the chimney can let water in. Even a small gap is enough for rain or melting snow to get underneath. Wind can push water in even faster, making the damage worse. If your cover rattles, looks bent, or doesn’t sit flat, it should be inspected.

Above is an example of a loose chimney chase cover. How many more wind storms do you think it will take before this cover will blow off? Good thing we repaced it with a stainless steel cover!

3. Loose or Cracked Masonry

Similar to loose and warped covers, loosed and cracked masonry crowns is another sure way for water to infliltrate your home.

We can prolong the life of brick chimney crown by wrapping it in a stainless steel cover.

4. Loose Siding, Flashing, or Trim Around the Chimney

If the metal or siding around your chimney is loose, missing, or pulling away, it could mean water is getting behind it. These parts are there to protect the area where the chimney meets the roof. When they fail, water can travel down into your attic or walls. This often goes unnoticed until the damage becomes serious.

5. Rusty Chimney Cover

Rust is a clear warning sign. If you can see rust on the cover—or rust streaks running down the chimney—it means the cover is breaking down. Eventually a rusty cover will no longer keep water out of your chimney.

6. Water Spots Inside Your Home

One of the biggest red flags is water damage inside the house. Look for stains on ceilings or walls near the chimney. These spots may appear yellow or brown and often mean water is leaking in from above. If left alone, it can lead to mold, rot, or ceiling damage.

A Long-Term Solution

If you notice any of these issues, don’t wait. A small leak can quickly turn into a big repair bill. Stainless steel chimney chase covers are a smart upgrade. They don’t rust, they’re built to shed water, and they last for decades. If your cover is old or showing signs of wear, it’s time for a professional inspection.