Future-proofing custom multi-flue chimney cap for possible gas liner later — smart or waste of money?
Looking for advice before I spend ~$1,000 on a custom outside-mount multi-flue chimney cap (likely Rockford) for my 1961 house in Charleston, SC
My clay flue tile extends about 6" above the brick and about 3" above the crown. I want the custom cap mainly for rain, animal protection, and serious wind resistance (ideally something that can survive Cat 3 hurricane gusts).
My concern: I may convert one flue to a gas fireplace later and add a stainless liner.
Main question:
If I do that later, can the gas liner’s termination cap sit inside the big multi-flue cage under the lid, as long as there’s enough clearance above the terracotta tile? If so, how much vertical clearance should I order now to future-proof it—6" or 8" above the flue lip (so roughly a 12–14" tall cage)?
Do installers commonly leave the large outside cap in place and terminate the gas liner inside it, or do they usually remove/replace the whole top assembly when converting to gas?
Trying to decide whether buying the custom cap now is smart planning or a waste of money if a future gas insert install means tearing it all off anyway.