Expert: James Ball - 1/19/2010

Question
I am in Northern California. My Spark Arrestor got recently blown off during the storm. Since I don't use my fp at all, do I need to get a contractor to put it back on? If I don't do it will rain come through the chimney? Is it a code violation if I don't have a spark arrestor?

Answer
Hello Richard, I do not know the codes in CA but these type of cap will keep out, leaves, sticks, animals, rain (and snow). and the restrict sparks if they float up your chimney during a fie (you never know you might need to light it some day)
so I would put it back on
You could have a local Certified Chimney Sweep www.csia.org, (there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have they should be able to help.
Hope this helps
James