Can a fireplace damper be replaced? As a team who has seen their fair share of fireplace issues, the answer to this question is a resounding yes – the damper can (and should) be replaced.
In fact, not that long ago, a customer had a cozy fire going when they noticed something was off when smoke started coming back into the room instead of going up the chimney. They thought their house was on fire, but found out after the fact that it was just the throat damper off track.
Do you need fireplace damper repair or replacement services in the Charlotte area? Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help.
What Is the Damper?
Now, if you don’t know what a throat damper is, you’re not alone. It’s a metal plate that sits just above the firebox in your fireplace, and you have to make sure you open it, so the smoke goes up and out – and not back into your living space.
What many don’t know is that if it comes off track it might not stay open. So, if you find yourself in a similar situation as the one above, be sure to call a Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) certified chimney sweep out to give your fireplace a good look-over to see what needs to be done.
Should You Repair or Replace the Damper?
While dampers can sometimes be repaired, once they have jumped off track, it’s just better to replace the whole darn thing. Why?
- Wear & Tear: The most common reason dampers fail is simple – wear and tear. The damper and firebox are both metal, and the groove the damper handle sits in wears over time and pops out.
- Heat: Since the damper is right above the fire, it can suffer exposure from really high heat – and that can warp the metal over time and cause it to pop out of the groove, as well.
- Rust: Water is a real enemy of a chimney and fireplace if it gets into the system. Like with any type of metal, if water gets to the metal damper or on top of the fireplace and sits there for a long time, it causes rust and corrosion.
How to Replace a Damper
For a chimney technician from Winston’s Chimney Service, replacing a damper is an easy and straightforward process. We’ll remove the old damper and any rusted bolts, take appropriate measurements, then make sure everything is centered and level before tightening the bolts and testing it out.
This isn’t a project we would suggest tackling yourself, as even a minor mishap could lead to headaches and more issues. If you need care, call us out – we’re here and would be happy to help.
Is a Top-Sealing Damper Right for You?
Now, for some systems, a top-sealing damper might be a better alternative than a throat damper. These sit at the top of the chimney, near the chimney cap, and they offer a tight seal with a rubber gasket. These are great for reducing downdrafts, keeping your flue warmer when it’s not in use, and they can even help you keep your energy bills lower (a cold flue equals a cold living space).
Think this is the better route for your household? Let us know, and we can get you where you need to be. When it comes to chimney repairs – whether it’s dampers, chimney caps, crowns, or something else – we’re the team to tackle it all.
Our Professionals Are Here to Help
Having a professional chimney technician out to replace your fireplace damper is a simple process when you count on us. If you’re experiencing problems with your fireplace damper, don’t hesitate to call Winston’s Chimney Service at 703-379-5006 to tackle the job. We’re experienced, professional, put you first, and our 5-star reviews speak for themselves. There’s not much we can’t do for you!
When it comes to any fireplace service or issue, we’re Northern VA’s chimney company of choice. Thanks for choosing us! You can also schedule online.
