Refractory panels and prefab fireplace parts replaced in Alafaya

A damper stuck open or closed

A damper blade that will not open fully restricts the smoke path, and one that will not close lets cooled indoor air escape up the chimney between fires. In a factory-built unit, the fix depends on the model's own handle, blade and weight parts.

We check whether the trouble is rust, a bent part or a missing piece, then order the matching part. If the damper belongs to an assembly marked not field replaceable, we tell you before discussing other options.

The shield between the chimney and attic insulation

Section R1005.8 requires an insulation shield where a factory-built chimney passes through insulated assemblies, made of steel at least 0.0187 inch thick, which is No. 26 gage. In an attic, the shield ends at least 2 inches above the insulation and is secured in place.

New insulation blown into an attic can bury a missing or short shield. We look for the shield when we are in the attic and add or reset it before the insulation settles against the pipe.

• Steel shield around the pipe
• No. 26 gage or heavier
• At least 2 inches above the insulation
• Secured in place

Outside combustion air kits

Outside air reaches some factory-built fireplaces through a kit fitted during framing. One maker offers kits that draw air from a vented crawl space or through a sidewall, and warns that combustion air inlet ducts shall not end in an attic.

Crushed ducts, missing screens and closed inlets change how the fireplace burns. We check the kit where it can be reached and repair it with the maker's parts.

• Duct intact from inlet to fireplace
• Screen on the outside inlet
• Inlet clear and open
• No duct ending in the attic

Same-day prefab visits

Same-day service is available when the schedule allows, which helps when a cracked panel or a stuck damper turns up just before you planned a fire.

A same-day visit covers the inspection and the written estimate. Parts for a factory-built fireplace usually come from the maker, so the repair itself is booked once they arrive.

• Inspection and written estimate the same day
• Parts ordered from the maker
• Repair booked when the parts arrive