Chimneys & Cowls

Q: What is the standard size of a chimney cap?

There is no definitive size, though they are available in a wide range of typical chimney sizes. You should definitely purchase a chimney cowl that is the right size for your chimney, as this will influence its efficiency.

Q: Do chimneys let rain in?

Rain can enter an unprotected chimney and, in some seasons in Australia it is very wet. This causes problems, including water that can leak out onto the floor, or water damage to bricks and mortar in masonry chimneys.

A roaring wood fire is a welcoming feature to any home but smoke is not. A good chimney is vital, and a chimney cowl or flue cap will prevent smoke reentering and stop downdraught. Different types of chimney cowls exist such as static chimney cowls, chimney pots, revolving chimney cowls, gas cowls, bird guard cowls and more. ArchiPro features the best chimney solutions and roof accessories from trusted suppliers in Australia.

Chimney Cowls

Louvretec Australia

Featuring the best chimneys and cowls in Australia

A chimney cowl is a very beneficial tool, to accompany your wood burner, flue and chimney. It essentially acts as a chimney ventilator, sitting atop a chimney or chimney pot and extracting smoke and pollutants more efficiently. It also prevents birds, pests and rain from entering the chimney and lessens downdraught into your home. ArchiPro can help prep your roof and protect your home with a wide range of chimney accessories sourced from the top suppliers in Australia.

Types of roofing cowls

Static chimney cowl

This type of chimney cowl keeps birds, pests and rain out of chimneys.

Chimney cowls with downdraught protection

These lessen or prevent a downdraught in chimneys and keep out birds, pests and rain.

Revolving chimney cowls

These systems eliminate downdraught in chimneys, flue systems and vessels. Their circular motion keeps the wind from blowing open the chimney stack.

Gas cowls

These are reliable and well-suited for gas appliances. The type you use depends on the type of your gas fire and you’ll need to consult a gas expert.

Bird guard cowls

These prevent birds from entering or breeding in the flue. They can also double as a roof ornament.

Mechanical cowls

They work by creating a vacuum and are generally found in restaurants or bars to offset the impact of kitchen extractions.

Types of chimneys

Brick chimney

A brick fireplace or chimney is a traditional and aesthetically pleasing choice for homes. Constructed with bricks and mortar, these chimneys provide structural support and a durable venting system for fireplaces. They offer a charming and classic appearance, adding warmth and character to any room.

Masonry Chimneys

Masonry chimneys are built using materials like brick, concrete blocks, or stone. They are known for their durability and ability to withstand high temperatures. Masonry chimneys are custom-built on-site, allowing for flexibility in design and size. They provide a reliable and long-lasting solution for venting smoke and gases from fireplaces and heating appliances.

Metal Chimney

Metal chimneys, often made of stainless steel or galvanised steel, are a popular choice due to their versatility and cost-effectiveness. They come in pre-fabricated sections that can be easily assembled and installed. Metal chimneys offer excellent performance in terms of draft and venting efficiency, making them suitable for various fuel-burning appliances, including wood-burning stoves, gas fireplaces, and oil furnaces.

Prefabricated Chimneys

Prefabricated chimneys, also known as factory-built or zero-clearance chimneys, are manufactured off-site and assembled on location. They are designed to meet specific safety standards and are often made of metal. They offer flexibility in installation, making them suitable for both new construction and retrofitting existing homes. They provide efficient and safe venting for fireplaces and appliances, offering convenience and ease of use.

The advantages of high quality chimneys and chimney cowls

A high-quality chimney cowl or chimney flue cap will be durable and effective—two very key aspects for anything that’s helping keep your home warm and safe. It’s a tool that will be exposed to the elements 24/7, so you need one that will withstand all seasons in Australia. Whether you’ve purchased it for smoke extraction, keeping out pests or birds, preventing downdraught and keeping the home warmer - a high quality choice will do its job well for longer.

How to choose a chimney and chimney cowl that is right for you

The ideal cowl will depend on what you want it to do, and the type of shaft to which it’s connected. If you have a vent system with weak drawing power, a rotating cowl will suit, to extract warm air and pollutants more efficiently. If your home has an issue with downdraught, a good quality anti-downdraught cowl should be installed, and also keep out birds and animals.

How long does a chimney cowl last?

A high-quality chimney cowl or flue cap should last many years, as long as it’s looked after well. Always check it after high winds, and before each winter in Australia.