If either problem occurs, the damper may become difficult or impossible to operate, leaving it stuck partly open. A repair is needed to make the damper operational again.
Nothing quite compares to lighting a fire in your wood-burning fireplace or stove on a cold winter’s evening. One of the first steps when lighting a fire is to open the damper. If this device is damaged, drafty, or broken, you should have it repaired or replaced before using your fireplace again.
Chimney.com is ready to assist with all your chimney damper needs. We have been providing chimney repair to residents and commercial building owners in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC for over 30 years. Our team is committed to resolving your issues and restoring damper functionality so you can enjoy your fireplace to the fullest this winter.
A chimney damper, also called a fireplace damper, serves as a door between your fireplace and the outside. Dampers can be installed in different locations within the chimney.
Traditional throat dampers, also known as bottom-closing dampers, are located between the firebox and the smoke chamber. These are usually made of cast iron to withstand the high heat of a fire. Since they sit immediately above the flames, it’s easy to operate throat dampers by hand and check their condition at a glance.
Top-mount dampers are installed at the top of the chimney flue, with a control handle mounted to the firebox attached by an aircraft-grade cable. This option is more energy-efficient than a throat damper and provides added protection against water damage. Stainless steel is a proven, long-lasting material for top-mount dampers.
When you use your fireplace, the damper door needs to be open. Otherwise, harmful smoke, fumes, and carbon monoxide gas will become trapped inside, creating an unsafe environment. However, leaving the fireplace damper open all the time can result in drafts that make your home uncomfortable and force your furnace to work harder. That’s why, once the fire is out and the coals have cooled, you should close the damper to cut off airflow through the chimney.
If either problem occurs, the damper may become difficult or impossible to operate, leaving it stuck partly open. A repair is needed to make the damper operational again.
Extreme temperature changes can warp and deteriorate dampers over time, especially in the case of throat dampers that sit so close to the flames. A damaged damper can’t close tightly, causing efficiency and comfort problems. Installing a more efficient top-mount damper may solve this problem.
If the damper is stuck in the closed position, it is unsafe to use your wood-burning fireplace or stove until the device is repaired.
Many times, the best way to repair a damaged, drafty, or broken throat damper is to replace it with a top-mount damper. The team at Chimney.com has years of experience performing this repair. Our crew works hard to finish the job on time, on budget, and with your satisfaction guaranteed. We would be happy to provide you with a free estimate along with numerous references from satisfied commercial and residential customers. Contact us online or at (301) 989-3300 today to learn more about our chimney damper repair services!
Our service area includes most of Maryland, Northern Virginia, and Washington, DC. View the full list of our service areas below.