A chimney top damper fitted properly in Weston
We show you how to open it before a fire and when it is safe to close it afterward.
- Owned and run locally
- Available for same-day service
- Fully licensed and insured
- Family owned and run
Signs a top sealing damper could help in Weston
- Top damper cable slack or snapped
- Lid that will not open fully
- Lid that no longer closes tight
- Unclear open and closed positions
Jump to
From flue check to working damper in Weston
A damper that closes the flue at the top
A top sealing damper is a hinged lid mounted on the top of the flue. A gasket around its edge presses against the frame when it is shut. A cable runs from the lid down through the flue to a handle inside the fireplace, so you open and close it from the room.
Because it closes the flue at the top rather than just above the firebox, the whole flue sits behind the seal when it is shut. Rain, leaves and animals stay out, and so does outside air. When the lid is open, the flue works as it did before.
Factory-built chimneys need their maker's approval
Factory-built chimneys are tested as complete systems, and the Florida Building Code requires them to be terminated as the maker's instructions say. Adding a damper at the top is a change to that termination.
Some damper makers offer products and adapters for certain factory-built chimneys. That is not the same as the chimney maker approving them. We check the chimney's own documents before suggesting a top damper. If the chimney maker does not allow it, we explain the other ways to deal with the concern.
Top damper or throat repair, side by side
Choosing between a top damper and throat damper repair comes down to a few points. What burns in the fireplace, the state of the throat, the flue top and how easily you can reach each control all count.
We set the two routes out side by side for your fireplace, with what each involves and what each costs. Neither is right for every home. If one is not possible because of the fuel or the flue, we say so plainly rather than listing it as an option.
When we advise against a top damper
Some fireplaces are poor candidates for a top damper, and we tell you so. The usual reasons are a gas appliance in the firebox or a flue that also vents another appliance. A factory-built chimney whose maker does not allow it, or a flue top that cannot hold a frame, are others.
In those cases, we explain what else can be done, such as a throat damper repair, a cap or leaving the arrangement as it is. You receive that advice in writing. We would rather lose a sale than fit a damper that works against the fireplace.
Line items on a top damper estimate
- Check for animals or nesting first
- Lid opening and closing tested
- Firebox protected during drilling
- Maker's instructions left with you
Top damper questions for homes in Weston
What does a top sealing damper actually do?
It closes the flue at the chimney top with a lid and gasket, opened and closed by a cable that runs down to the fireplace. When shut, it keeps rain, animals and outside air out of the flue. When open, smoke leaves as normal.
Does a top damper replace my old throat damper?
It takes over the job of closing the flue. The old throat damper is then fixed open, removed or left in place, depending on its condition and the fireplace. We explain which applies and list it on the estimate.
When is it safe to close the damper after a fire?
Only once the fire is fully out and the embers are cold. Closing it earlier can push smoke into the room. The maker's instructions say the same, and we go through them with you at handover.
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Chimney & Fireplace Brands We Work With
DuraVent 
Olympia Chimney and Venting 
Copperfield Chimney Supply 
Rutland 
Heatilator 
Heat & Glo