Custom Stainless Steel Chase Cover Installation in Fairview, OR

Solving Water Intrusion & Protecting a Prefab Chimney System

Project Overview: Replacing a Damaged Chase Cover to Stop Active Leaks

A homeowner in Fairview, Oregon contacted Portland Chimney Inc. after noticing moisture entering their home near the chimney chase. The existing chase cover—original to the prefab chimney system—had rusted through and developed multiple holes around the pipe penetration. This allowed water to leak down into the chimney cavity, creating the potential for mold, wood rot, and further structural damage.

With the homeowner preparing to sell the property, it was essential to complete the repair quickly, professionally, and up to industry standards. Our team designed and installed a custom stainless steel chase cover in Zinc Gray, sized precisely to fit the client’s chase dimensions.

The Problem: Leaky Pipe & Failing Chase Cover

During our assessment, we identified several issues contributing to water intrusion:

Existing chase cover had holes and rust-through
Improper sealing around the chimney pipe
Standing water pooling due to flat, aging metal
Visible staining and moisture inside the chase

In prefab chimney systems, the chase cover is the primary defense against weather. Once compromised, water can freely enter the structure—damaging insulation, deteriorating the framing, and shortening the lifespan of the chimney pipe.

Because Fairview properties see heavy rainfall throughout the year, chase cover failure is one of the most common chimney issues in the area.

Our Solution: Custom-Fit Stainless Steel Chase Cover (Zinc Gray Finish)

To permanently eliminate water entry and strengthen the chimney system, we fabricated a 45.5″ x 54″ stainless steel chase cover finished in Zinc Gray, selected for durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic compatibility with the home.

Material Selection

We used:

Stainless Steel for superior rust resistance
Zinc Gray color coating for an elevated architectural look
Precision hemmed edges for stability and drip control
Proper cross-breaks to shed water away from the pipe and edges

Stainless steel is the industry standard for premium chimney chase covers, outperforming galvanized or aluminum alternatives and providing decades of reliable protection.

Installation Process: Safe Access & Secure Weatherproofing

1. Scaffold Setup – 30’ Height With Putlogs

Due to roof height and the chase’s location, we installed a secure scaffold system with putlogs for stable footing. This ensured safety and allowed our technicians to maneuver the large chase cover efficiently.

2. Removal of Old Chase Cover

We detached the deteriorated metal, cleaned the chase top, and inspected the framing for moisture or rot. Luckily, damage had not yet spread, making timely replacement essential.

3. Installation of Custom Stainless Steel Cover

We sealed and secured the new cover using:

Corrosion-resistant fasteners
Proper high-temperature sealants around the pipe
A raised storm collar for added water protection

The new chase cover fits the structure precisely, with formed edges and sloped breaks that direct rainwater off the chimney top rather than allowing pooling.

4. Final Inspection & Cleanup

After confirming all seams, fasteners, and seals were watertight, we cleaned the workspace and documented the installation for the homeowner.

Total Job Time: 2 Days

Local Considerations: Why Chase Covers Fail in Fairview, OR

Fairview’s climate features frequent rain, winter storms, and fluctuating temperatures that cause metal expansion and contraction. Many older prefab chimneys still have their original chase covers—typically made from thin galvanized steel that rusts rapidly in the Pacific Northwest.

Common reasons for failure in the region include:

Rust-through due to constant moisture
Flat chase covers that allow standing water
Open screw penetrations exposing raw metal
Incorrect pipe collar installation
Age-related deterioration

Replacing the chase cover with stainless steel is the most reliable long-term solution for homes in East Multnomah County.

Final Result: A Leak-Free, Durable & Real Estate–Ready Chimney System

The new Zinc Gray stainless steel chase cover completely resolved the leak and upgraded the chimney with a clean, modern appearance. By addressing the problem before listing the home, the seller avoided inspection issues and increased buyer confidence.

The homeowner noted: