Inspect chimney crown, cap, and flashing
Why it matters
Cracked crowns and missing chimney caps allow water and animals to enter the flue. Flashing failures cause roof leaks that show up as water stains on bedroom ceilings. Full chimney relining costs $1,500–$3,000.
Stop forgetting to do this.
Hearth generates a personalized maintenance schedule so you never miss another inspect chimney crown, cap, and flashing.
How to do it
- 1
Use binoculars from ground level to inspect the chimney crown (concrete cap on top).
- 2
Look for visible cracks, spalling, missing mortar, or water stains on the exterior.
- 3
Check that a chimney cap (metal mesh hood) is present and not corroded or damaged.
- 4
Inspect the flashing (metal seal) where the chimney meets the roof for rust, gaps, or lifting edges.
- 5
If cracks are small (hairline), monitor them; larger cracks require professional crown repair or sealing.
- 6
If cap is missing or damaged, or flashing is lifting, call a chimney service for repairs.