Cowl (oast)

[1][2] This section deals with the traditional cowls found on oasts, with particular reference to the South East.

Slotted through the centre post and attached to the back board is the distinctive finger which sometimes carried a motif.

[3][4] The size of cowls is expressed as height from top plate to base by width of kiln opening covered.

The finger would be removed, and the coach bolt securing the centre post to the backboard undone.

The cowl could then be lifted off the tenon at the top of the centre post and lowered down the kiln.

Reports in the media have mentioned the cowls can creak and is a 'feature' of oast houses.

By climbing inside and putting grease at the bottom of the pole and around the top metal ring all noises when the cowl turns are thwarted.