Chimney repair, cleaning and fireplace service in Colonialtown North

A damper that will not close, or will not open all the way, is a small part causing a big nuisance in Colonialtown North, one of the City of Orlando's official neighborhoods. When it sticks open, warm humid air drifts down the flue and cooled indoor air escapes up it. When it sticks shut, the fireplace cannot be used without filling the room with smoke.

Most fireplaces have a throat damper, a metal plate just above the firebox that opens and closes with a handle or a chain. Rust, warping from heat, debris on the frame or a broken linkage can all stop it from working. Some can be freed, cleaned and adjusted. Others have a plate or frame too damaged to seal and need replacement parts, and a few are better replaced with a different kind of damper altogether.

That different kind is a top-sealing damper. It mounts at the top of the flue and closes with a gasket against the flue tile, operated by a cable that runs down to the firebox. Sealing at the top means the whole flue stays closed to rain, animals and outside air between fires, and it is a good answer where the old throat damper is past repair.

It has to be sized to the flue and fitted to the crown, so we measure and inspect before recommending one. Do not force a stuck damper with a tool, and do not light a fire until you know it is open. Tell us whether the handle moves, whether you hear scraping and whether daylight is visible when it is supposed to be open.

Our local, family-owned company inspects the damper, flue and crown free of charge, and the written estimate compares a repair with a top-sealing damper at upfront prices. In Colonialtown North, work booked within 72 hours after the free inspection is 10% off, backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee.