Chimneys and rain

[edward55]

Apologies for continuing the chimney-related questions (I take it this happens every year once the cold weather kicks in?).

Since we moved into our house, I've heard the sound of rain drops in the chimney through the fireplace in an upstairs bedroom - it just sounds like little "plips" at different notes. I had assumed it was rain coming in somewhere, but having placed my head next to the fireplace last night, I noticed how the chimney amplifies the sounds from the neighborhood, passing cars etc. It dawned on me that the little plips I can hear might be raindrops falling onto the tin cowl we have on the pot. I'm guessing the sound just travels right down the chimney.

Just wondering if anyone can confirm that this is what these thin metal cowls sound like during rain? Do clay cowls sound any better?

Thanks for any advice.

 

[Andrew Bodenham]

Yes, little plips and pings is what you will hear. Just wait until it hails!

A clay cap would almost certianly dull the sound - but be aware that if you are using the flue there are many different types of ceramic cowl, not all which are suitable as an active terminal.

 

[edward55]

Hi Andrew,

Great, thanks for putting my mind at rest. I suppose I can live with the plips and pings now that I'm safe in the knowledge they're coming from outside rather than inside.