Proudly American
Keep the silhouette and outlet separate on the drawing
A pot may widen, taper or change shape between its base and its outlet. A catalog size can describe a different point from the dimension needed for a rain guard. Superior Clay provides style-specific dimensions and discusses rain guards for its pots. Ask the provider to identify which surfaces a proposed guard would touch and whether the rim is sound enough for that arrangement.
Define the reason for changing the top
Keeping rain out, deterring animal entry and preserving the view from the street are three different requests. Ask which ones the proposed component addresses. A decorative shape or close color match does not establish compatibility with the appliance or suitable exhaust passage. If a roofer found a piece below the stack, use an existing photo to identify it rather than climbing up to compare it.
Retain a maintenance route
Before approving a one-piece assembly or a change to the appearance of a historic top, ask how the flue can be inspected and swept later. Keep an annotated photograph naming the pot, any new guard and the fireplace it serves. If an original pot must be replaced rather than retained, ask for the physical reason and the measured profile needed for a suitable replacement.