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Yes, a chimney cap is an excellent idea for several reasons. It prevents debris, rain, or snow from entering your chimney, which can cause moisture damage or blockages. A cap with a mesh screen also keeps animals like birds, squirrels, and bats from nesting in your chimney—or worse, getting into your abode. Additionally, chimney caps help prevent downdrafts, which can push smoke and harmful gases back into your home. Lastly, by installing a chimney cap, you will improve safety and enhance the overall efficiency of your fireplace.

You can burn wood with oak wilt, as heat from the fire destroys the fungus, and smoke won’t threaten healthy trees. However, wood of unknown origin should be burned during the dormant season—do not store wood in the warmer months for the winter season. If you harvest oak, let it dry in the sun before transporting it elsewhere.

Creosote control, maintaining cap mesh integrity, and swift repairs keep systems robust.

In most homes, your chimney and HVAC are separate from each other. However, you can use your chimney to save on heating costs in the winter. Turn off your HVAC system and start a cozy fire, then watch the electric bills drop during the coldest months. Make sure your flue is closed when not in use so that you don’t end up pumping heat or cool air from your system outside.