After the siding is replaced and painted, the old chase cover remains. The new siding will eventually suffer the same fate as the previous siding if the issues with the chase cover are not addressed.
This new chase cover is stainless steel, so it won't rust. It is properly supported to shed water, and it completely covers the top of the wood siding to prevent water entry.The chase cover and chase should now outlast the fireplace and chimney.
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Manufactured fireplaces are very common in newer homes. These fireplaces are inexpensive and fairly easy to install, so are a favorite with builders looking to cut costs.
A manufactured fireplace vents through a metal chimney. This chimney is unsightly sticking out of a roof, so it is usually shrouded by a chase of some sort. The chase is typically constructed of wood, with siding or brick veneer. The top of the chase is covered with a metal pan, called the chase cover.
As with masonry chimneys, most manufactured chimneys are terminated poorly. Builders typically use the cheapest possible materials that are installed in a sloppy manner. As a result, chase covers fail and allow water to reach the interior of the chase and the top of the fireplace. Once the chase cover fails, the fireplace and chase will fall apart quickly, necessitating expensive replacements.
If the chase cover is not properly sized, it may allow water penetration of the siding, causing the chase exterior to deteriorate. Replacing chase covers with a properly sized, properly installed, quality chase cover is a good investment.
