Posts by Magister Fumarii
Buying a Chimney Cowl: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Before buying a chimney cowl, check these 10 common pitfalls—from sizing the pot and liner to choosing the right fixing and material—so you get perfect performance on the first install.
Chimney Cowl Maintenance: Cleaning Meshes, Caps & Bearings
A 20–40 minute seasonal clean keeps draught strong, stops smells, and prevents costly issues. Here’s the fast, safe way to do it.
Chimney Draught Problems: Diagnose & Fix Fast (2025 Guide)
Not sure which chimney cowl materials will last? Compare stainless, galvanised, powder-coated and aluminium options for coastal vs inland homes—plus durability, fixing and upkeep tips.
Best Coastal Chimney Cowl Options for High-Wind, Salt-Air Sites
Sea breezes, salty air and gusty headlands demand tougher materials and smarter aerodynamics. Here’s how to choose a cowl that lasts and performs.
Chimney Cowl Fixings Explained: Strap & Band vs Bolt-Down vs Pot-Hanger
Get the fixing right and the cowl stays put, performs better, and lasts longer. Here’s how to choose for your pot, liner and site conditions.
Chimney Cowl Size Guide Pot Sizes & Cowl Sizing: Measure Once, Buy Right
Two numbers matter: your chimney pot outside diameter (OD) and, if you have a stove liner, the liner diameter. Get these right and your cowl will fit perfectly and perform as it should.
Chimney Capper for Disused Flues: Vent, Don’t Seal
Cap each unused pot individually. Keep active flues on appropriate terminals (anti-downdraught, rain cap, liner pot-hanger, etc.).
Spark Arrestor Chimney Cowls: Thatch & High-Risk Roof Safety
Reduce the risk of ejected embers landing on combustible roofs. Here’s when to use a spark arrestor, how to size it, and how to keep performance strong.
Chimney Cowls for Open Fires vs Wood Burners: Key Differences
Safety: Poor draw after fitting a correct cowl may indicate a cold, blocked or undersized flue. Consider a professional sweep/inspection and, if required, a new flexible liner. Work safely at height or hire a professional.
Chimney Liner Pot-Hanger Cowls: Support the Liner & Cap the Pot
Pot-hanger cowls combine termination, weather cap and bird guard with a built-in hanger to carry the liner—no top plates or clamps required.