Chimney Damper Repair
A damper that sticks, will not close or will not stay where you set it is usually fixable. The question is whether it is worth repairing or time to replace it.
What the damper does
The damper is the movable plate or door in the throat of the fireplace. Open, it lets smoke leave. Closed, it keeps rain, drafts and conditioned air from moving through the flue. It lives in an environment of heat, soot and moisture, so it is one of the parts that wears out.
Common problems
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Handle moves but the plate does not | A broken or disconnected linkage |
| Stuck open or stuck closed | Rust, soot or debris binding the plate or hinge |
| Will not seal | Warping from heat, rust, or a plate that no longer fits the frame |
| Rust flakes in the firebox | Water coming down the flue, often from a missing cap or cracked crown |
| Rattles or bangs in the wind | Worn hinge or loose parts |
Repair or replace?
Cleaning and freeing a sticky damper, adjusting a linkage or replacing a small part can work well when the damper is mostly sound. When the plate is warped, rusted through or does not fit the frame, a repair is only temporary. That is when we recommend replacing the damper, or fitting a top-sealing damper. We tell you honestly which one your damper needs.
Check the cause
A rusted damper is often a symptom. If rain is coming down the flue, a new damper will rust again. We look at the top of the chimney as well, and recommend a cap or crown repair if water is the cause.
Do not light a fire if the damper is closed or stuck. Smoke and carbon monoxide will enter the room.
What the work involves
How a damper repair goes
- TestWe see how the damper moves, and how it seals.
- DiagnoseWe find what is causing the problem.
- DecideWe explain whether repair or replacement makes sense.
- FixWe repair it or replace it, and check that it works.
Related services
Chimney Dampers
The types of damper and how they work.
Learn moreDamper Replacement
When repair is not enough.
Learn moreFireplace Repair
Other fireplace problems.
Learn moreWe work throughout New Jersey. See our service areas, or browse all services.
Questions
Frequently asked questions
Can a rusted damper be repaired?
Light surface rust that does not affect movement usually can. Heavy rust or a warped plate usually means replacement.
Why will my damper not close all the way?
Warping, debris, or a bent frame are the usual causes. We check which.
Is a stuck damper dangerous?
A damper stuck closed is. Never burn with it closed. Stuck open is mostly a draft and heat loss problem.
Do all fireplaces have the same damper?
No. Throat dampers, top-sealing dampers and different sizes exist, and the right one depends on the fireplace.
Ready to have your chimney looked at?
Call us, or send a scheduling request. We will contact you to confirm a time. Your appointment is not confirmed until we do.