A chimney cowl is a device that is fitted to the top of a chimney stack, usually made of metal, plastic, terracotta, or mesh. It has several functions which range from safety to improving performance of the chimney and reducing maintenance.
The main reasons why you would want a chimney cowl fitted are:
- Stop rain water and snow from getting in - Rain and snow can cause issues for your chimney flue. A little rain may not be a problem, but over time it can accumulate moisture (particularly in months where the fireplace is not in use) which will damage your chimney and be costly to repair. The same is true of snow, though if you are lighting the fire often during snowy seasons, this will help evaporate any moisture. A cowl is designed to prevent this from happening.
