Chimney Cap FAQ

Ordering & Process

How do I order a custom cap?

Start by sending me your chimney measurements — crown dimensions, number of flues, and flue sizes. I'll confirm the fit, quote you a price, and build it to your exact dimensions. You can submit a quote request here or call me at (609) 352-9840. I respond to every inquiry personally.

How long does fabrication take?

My standard lead time is 3–4 weeks from the time I have your confirmed measurements and deposit. Complex multi-flue caps or custom profiles may run slightly longer. I'll give you a specific timeline when I quote your job.

What information do I need to provide?

At minimum: the outside dimensions of your chimney crown (length × width), the number of flues, and each flue's outside tile dimensions. If you have a hip or ridge roofline, a photo helps. My measuring guide walks you through exactly what to measure and how.

What does a custom cap cost?

My caps start around $950 for smaller single-flue designs. Most orders come in between $1,500 and $3,500 depending on chimney size, number of flues, and material. My average order is right around $2,600 shipped. Send me your measurements and I'll give you a straight number — no obligation.

Do you offer contractor or trade pricing?

Yes. I work with chimney sweeps, masons, and general contractors on a regular basis. If you're a contractor looking to add custom fabricated caps to your offering, reach out directly and I'll walk you through how I work with trade accounts.

Materials

What materials do you work with?

I fabricate in four primary materials: 16oz copper (20oz available on request), Kynar-coated aluminum, Galvalume, and anodized aluminum. Each has its own look, price point, and performance profile. I don't work with galvanized steel or painted steel — everything I use is built for long-term outdoor exposure without painting or sealing.

What is Kynar aluminum?

Kynar is a PVDF coating factory-applied to aluminum or Galvalume sheet. It's the same coating system used on commercial standing seam roofing — fade-resistant, chalk-resistant, and warrantied for decades in exterior applications. I stock it in a range of standard architectural colors. It's a good fit for homeowners who want a color match to their roof or trim without the price of copper.

What is the difference between 16oz and 20oz copper?

16oz is the architectural industry standard and what I use on the majority of caps. It's heavy, durable, and more than adequate for residential use. 20oz is available on request for very large caps — typically over 4 feet — or for high-wind and coastal installations where extra rigidity matters.

What are anodized aluminum caps?

Anodized aluminum is a hard, factory-applied finish that goes into the metal surface rather than sitting on top of it. I use Lorin Industries .040 gauge sheet in four finishes: Matte Gold, Bronze, BlackMatt, and Medium Antique Copper. It's AAMA 611-12 Class II rated for exterior use. No other fabricator I'm aware of is offering anodized aluminum chimney caps — it's a finish that works particularly well on modern and mid-century architecture.

Copper

Will my copper cap arrive shiny?

Yes. Every copper cap leaves my shop with a bright new-penny finish. Copper begins reacting to air almost immediately after fabrication, so the darkening process starts right away once it's on the roof.

How does copper patina develop?

In the first 6–12 months, copper deepens to a rich brown or bronze. Over 5–10 years — faster in coastal or high-moisture climates — it develops the classic verdigris green. The process is uneven at first, which is normal and a sign of genuine copper. A uniform color means it's a coating, not the real thing.

Does copper require maintenance?

Practically none. It doesn't rust, doesn't need paint, and doesn't need sealing. If you want to slow the patina, a clear coat like Everbrite applied before installation will delay the darkening — but for a chimney environment, I recommend letting it age naturally.

Will copper stain my roof or masonry?

Copper runoff can leave a faint tint on light-colored masonry or shingles during the first season as the patina sets. I build a drip edge into every cap to direct water away from the crown. Most homeowners find the slight aging adds to the character of the home rather than detracting from it.

Installation & Shipping

How do your caps install?

My caps top-mount to the chimney crown with a mounting flange set in elastomeric sealant and fastened directly to the crown. This is fundamentally different from store-bought caps that clamp to clay flue tiles with friction — those leave the crown exposed and rely on a clamp that loosens over time. My installation method protects the entire crown surface and stays put.

How does shipping work?

Every cap ships freight in a custom wood crate I build in my shop, sized to the cap. Freight delivery means an 18-wheeler will deliver to your address — if your property isn't accessible to large trucks, arrange pickup at the freight terminal when they call to schedule delivery. I ship nationwide.

Do you install?

I fabricate and ship — I don't travel for installation. Most caps are installed by the homeowner's mason, roofer, or chimney sweep. Installation is straightforward and I'm happy to walk your contractor through it if needed.

Other Products

What is a chimney chase cover?

A chase cover is the flat metal top on a wood-framed prefab chimney chase — the kind with vinyl or composite siding. Factory chase covers are typically thin galvanized steel that rusts through in 5–10 years. I fabricate replacement chase covers in copper, lead coated copper, stainless steel, and Kynar aluminum, soldered at the collar, with a positive-pitch lid so water sheds completely.

What is a chimney shroud?

A chimney shroud (also called a chimney surround) is a decorative curtain wall that wraps the top of the chimney — it has no lid or spark screen. It's used to improve the chimney's appearance, conceal an ugly clay flue tile, or tie the chimney into the home's architectural style. I fabricate custom shrouds in copper and Kynar aluminum.

What is an extended height chimney cap?

Extended height caps add effective flue height without masonry work. They solve downdraft, backdraft, and chimney height code issues caused by chimneys that don't clear the roof line by the required two feet. I fabricate them in copper, Kynar, and Galvalume — curved panel, Crown Top Vent, and board and batten profiles. Read more about how they work.