Chimney flue repair in Boggy Creek

Smoke in the fireplace next door

If you smell smoke from one fireplace while another is burning, or see smoke coming from an unused flue, the flues may be leaking into each other. A cracked tile or a damaged partition between flues is a common reason.

This is worth taking seriously, because smoke and combustion gases are going where they were never meant to go. Stop using the fireplace that seems to be the source, and call us for an assessment. A smoke test often helps confirm where the leak is.

When the fireplace can be used again

Many repair products need time to cure before a fire is lit, and some call for a gradual first heating. The maker's instructions set that schedule, and we follow them.

Before we leave, we tell you in writing when the fireplace can be used and how to light the first fires. If any limit remains, such as a section that could not be reached, we say so plainly rather than leaving you to guess. Where a section remains unseen, we explain whether that limits normal use or only affects what we can promise about it.

Weather, curing and scheduling

Mortars and repair products need the right conditions to cure. Heavy rain or high humidity can interfere with some products, especially at the top of the flue.

We schedule around the forecast and follow each product maker's curing instructions. If weather delays the work, we let you know and reschedule rather than rushing a repair that needs time to set. A coating applied inside a damp flue may not bond, and fresh mortar at the top can wash out in a downpour. Waiting a day for dry conditions costs far less than repeating the repair.

What decides the size of a flue repair

No two flue repairs are the same size. The scope depends on the findings, and each factor is spelled out in the estimate.

We explain each factor that applies to your chimney and how it shapes the recommendation.

• How many sections are damaged and where
• How tall the chimney is and how it is reached
• Whether the flue has offsets
• The product or material the repair needs
• Cleaning and preparation before the repair
• Related work at the crown, cap or smoke chamber