Chimney Pots
Do I need one? Do I want one? Should I get one? It's the 
newest trend in spicing up the exterior of your home!
Personally, I love how they look! Chimney pots were traditionally unglazed terracotta pots with a tapered shape, designed to increase the draft of a chimney while providing an ornamental cap to a building. Their use is first recorded in the thirteenth century, and they were an important aid to heating during the time when fireplaces were the main source of warmth.
Belying the name pot, chimney pots are available in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, styles -- important because they must fit the flue. They are available in a range of colors and designs to suit and highlight various architectural styles on a home. Although one may purchase antique or reproduction chimney pots either to fit the house architecture, from an appreciation of history, or for beauty, the new array of patterns means that chimney pots are no longer associated exclusively with Tudor Architecture. Among the shapes available are chess pieces, octagonal columns, and those shaped like gun or cannon barrels.
Chimney pots fit around the outside of the flue, but inside the chimney, so proper measurement is important to getting a good fit. Securing a piece of wire mesh over the top of the chimney pot can keep both leaves and small animals out, as well as keeping sparks in. Local fire code determines the requirements for spark arrestors so checking with the village before installation is important.
Didn't know what a Chimney Pot was? Now you do! See you've learned something today!
The photo at the right is an incorrect way to use a Chimney Pot! So don't even try it in my neighborhood!
Chimney Pots in This Old House Magazine
Chimney Pots made between 1840 and 1880
Copper Chimney Pots
Copper Chimney Pots
Extendaflue Chimney Styles
Please contact me Lyn, I need more information!
Lyn Sims (847)230-7324
RE/MAX Suburban
Email: LynSims@msn.com
All data and information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. Lyn Sims makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, correctness, suitability or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from it’s display or use/
Chimney Pots ©2009 Lyn Sims - www.RealEstateConsumerInfo.com - www.RealEstateBuyMe.com
I love the picture of the "pot" guy....I admit this is a good visual for a chimney pot. Gave me a good laugh!
Lyn, Thanks for the lesson on Chimney Pots. They made me think of the chimineas that are big here in Texas for your patio. Great photo too!
Karen, couldn't resist using the photo of the incorrect application.
Susan: Thanks and they are also putting them on outdoor fireplace, pits, etc. cause they look so great.
That photo was too funny. Gotta have some humor! I didn't realize that is what they were called!
I didn't know this...but the guy is certainly giving me an idea!!!;-}
Heather, can't be 100% informative. :-)
Bill: Now don't be climbing on the roof and getting into trouble.
I think Santa Claus was the first person to use chimney pots like those two guys in your picture -- LOL. If you were bad that year, Santa just sat down and took a.... I'll just leave it at that.
Jim: Didn't think of that 'butt' that would make total 'scents'. Blame Santa for the craze.
Lyn, I'd never heard of these - they would look fabulous on a brick chimney. Great photo - thanks for the laugh, and the education!
Kathryn: I would think with the older architecture in the East you would know about these? They also look good on outside kitchen areas & BBQ's which are popular now. Can't have a boring flue on your fabulous patio area.