The History of Chimney Caps

Young in Architecture

The history of chimney caps begins of course with the chimney itself, which in considering human history is a relatively new concept when compared to other basic architectural functions.  They are really only a few hundred years old, much younger than gutters.  In fact, the concept of Santa coming down the chimney is less than 200 years old.

There were a few civilizations that solved heating issues like the Romans or Chinese but these phased in and out with the collapse of economies and empires.  Since man began to live in houses, the main solution for warmth was an open hearth.  Often walls or ceilings would have holes to promote circulation though most were not very air tight to begin with.

The Second Story

After the Norman invasion (around 1000 BC), second story homes began to appear, making a hearth on the bottom floor a bit more difficult.  Fires were moved into walls and holes and/or flues were constructed to vent them.  Chimneys as we know them, did not really make a recognizable appearance until the 15th century on a few buildings.  Chimney caps began to make an appearance then though most were functional more than form.

Revolution and Evolution

The industrial revolution and the introduction of cheap coal made chimneys extremely popular… and dangerous.  Thus was born the chimney sweep, mostly children in fact.  The Victorian era eventually did away with child labor and architects began to put emphasis on less maintenance-reliant chimneys and other forms of central heating.

Chimneys now are decorative on most modern homes, often just a stack of bricks.  Many historical homes are topped with a chimney and require caps to preserve the chimney longer.  Several sources would claim that classical chimneys are making a comeback and a chimney cap is a great way to accent a roof with a specific style.  Ornametals has dozens of options available and can also design a custom chimney cap.

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