Why should you replace your rusted chase cover? Water intrusion — A rusted cover develops holes and corroded seams that let rain and snowmelt into the chase, the framed structure around the chimney. This is the biggest reason; water is what causes most of the cascading damage below. Structural rot and damage — Water getting past the cover soaks the wood framing, insulation, and chimney chase walls, leading to rot, mold, and weakened structure that's far more expensive to fix than the cover itself. Rust staining — Runoff from a corroding steel cover leaves ugly orange-brown streaks down the chimney chase and siding, hurting curb appeal and signaling neglect to anyone inspecting the home. Damage to the chimney/flue — Pooling water around the flue pipes can corrode them and degrade surrounding masonry or crown, potentially affecting how the chimney vents. It's failing at its one job — The cover exists to shed water away from the chase. Once it's rusted through or holding standing water (often because it lacked a proper slope or cricket), it no longer protects anything. Prevents pest and air entry — Gaps from corrosion can let in birds, insects, and rodents, as well as drafts that affect energy efficiency.