Stuck, warped or rusted dampers repaired or replaced, so the flue closes tightly and opens fully when you need it.
The damper is a metal door inside the throat of the fireplace. Open, it lets smoke escape up the chimney. Closed, it keeps your heated or cooled air from escaping and blocks drafts and animals. Dampers rust, warp and jam over time, and a damper that will not open fully makes the fireplace smoke, while one that will not close fully wastes energy.
We free sticky dampers, repair broken handles and linkages and replace dampers that have rusted through or warped. If your damper is worn out, we can also talk about a top-sealing damper that closes at the top of the chimney, a popular upgrade for tighter, more efficient closure.
A damper that is stiff, stuck partly open, rusted, bent or missing a handle needs attention. Cold drafts down the chimney are another sign.
Many dampers can be cleaned, freed and adjusted. We repair what can be saved and replace what cannot.
A new throat damper replaces the old plate. A top-sealing damper goes on top of the flue and is operated by a cable, offering a tight seal and a cap in one.
A damper that seals well keeps conditioned air in the house. That can make a noticeable difference in a drafty room.
Opens and closes smoothly.
Easy to use.
A tighter seal.
Protects the firebox.
Better comfort.
Repair or replace.
Every topic has its own page with what to expect and how we approach it.
Project situationSmoke and Odor ProblemsSmoke in the room or a smoky smell in summer both have causes. Here is how we find…Learn more 
Project situationUnused FireplacesA fireplace that sat cold for years can heat the home again. Here are the steps and the…Learn more 
Project situationOlder and Historic HomesOlder chimneys have soft brick, old mortar and no liner. They need a gentler approach and the right…Learn more Pick what you see or smell to learn what it may mean and how urgent it is.
You tell us about the chimney, fireplace or stove and what you have noticed, and we set a visit that fits your day.
We look closely at the chimney, inside and out, ask how you use it and take photos of anything of note.
We explain what is urgent, what can wait and what is optional, and give you a written scope and options.
We lay drop cloths, seal the firebox and protect the roof and landscaping before any work begins.
We sweep, repair or install with the right tools and materials, checking our work as we go.
We clean up, show you what we did, share tips and set a reminder for your next visit.
Rust, warping, soot buildup and a broken handle are common reasons.
A damper that does not close fully is the usual cause. Replacement or a top-sealing damper helps.
Often yes. We free, adjust and repair it.
It is a damper that closes at the top of the flue and seals tightly. See our page on top sealing dampers.
Yes. A damper that is not fully open can cause smoke to spill into the room.
Top Sealing DampersA silicone-sealed damper at the top of the flue stops drafts, moisture and animals, and it doubles as…Explore 
Draft and Smoke DiagnosisA fireplace that smokes, a stove that will not draw or a chimney that pulls cold air down…Explore 
Firebox Repair and RebuildingA damaged firebox is repaired or fully rebuilt with fresh firebrick and refractory mortar, so heat stays where…Explore 
Chimney Cleaning and SweepingA tidy, thorough sweep that removes soot and creosote from the flue, smoke chamber and firebox so every…Explore Tell us about the project and we will call you back to talk it through.
Or call (615) 357-7797 to talk now.
