No. A chimney cap will not keep water out of your chimney, but it will keep animals and debris from entering your chimney. If you are looking to keep water out of your chimney, you should install a chimney flashing. Chimney flashing is a metal sheet that is installed at the base of your chimney and helps to prevent water from seeping into the brick and mortar around the chimney.

No. A chimney cap only keeps rain and snow out. If you live in a high-wind area, then you need to get a cap with straps to keep it on. Water can still come down the chimney and enter the fireplace if the damper is open. So if you are not going to use your fireplace for a while, be sure to close the damper.