What are chimney pots?
Chimney pots are, simply put, terra cotta (ceramic) pots that sit atop a chimney. Chimney pots can be round, square, octagonal, or rectangular, but in all cases, they are open at the bottom, where they attach to the chimney and open or vented at the top. Their tapered shape allows them to perform the important function of improving fireplace draft, and many people still buy chimney pots for that reason. But more often today, chimney pots are used as an exterior architectural accent to add character and beauty to fine homes and buildings. Think accessorizing, but for the house.
Chimney pots were traditionally unglazed terracotta pots with a tapered shape, designed to increase the draft of a chimney while providing an ornamental cap to a building. Their use is first recorded in the thirteenth century, and they were an important aid to home heating during the time when fireplaces were the main source of warmth. They also helped to vent the fumes from burning coal. Originally found in Europe, chimney pots seem to have been brought to North America with settlers from France and England. The craft was taken up in the United States, and there are now several chimney pot manufacturers and suppliers in the US. Today, copper chimney pots are available as well as traditional terracotta ones, and terracotta pots with a glazed finish also exist. Belying the name pot, chimney pots are available in a wide variety of sizes — important because they must fit the flue. Besides that, they are available in a range of colors and designs to suit various architectural styles. Alth
Chimney pots are, simply put, terra cotta (ceramic) pots that sit atop a chimney. Chimney pots can be round, square, octagonal, or rectangular, but in all cases, they are open at the bottom, where they attach to the chimney and open or vented at the top. Their tapered shape allows them to perform the important function of improving fireplace draft, and many people still buy chimney pots for that reason.
