Fireplace Damper Solutions Near You: Homeowner in Tulsa, Skiatook & Beyond Trust Us
As a family-owned and operated company with a passion for making life cozier, safer, and more enjoyable for other families in the greater Tulsa area, we pride ourselves on offering effective and affordable chimney and fireplace services. For damper repair and replacement, reach out now.
What Does a Fireplace Damper Do?
The fireplace damper is a metal component, traditionally located in the throat of the chimney flue, that has a single function: to open and close the flue. When fires are lit, they’ll open up to ensure smoke, fumes, and other particles escape (and ensure your fire has plenty of oxygen). And when fires are out, they’ll close up tight, so that your home isn’t exposed to outside air.
When we’re out on the job, many homeowners complain of things like cold air coming down through their chimneys, smoke backing up into their homes when they have a fire going, or their energy bills going up due to a chimney that’s not sealed properly. Many times these issues can all be traced back to the damper.
Sometimes the fix is simple: if you forgot to open your damper, simply pull the lever and let it do its job. Other times, the damper is broken down, stuck shut, or just plain ineffective due to age and corrosion. In these cases, we’re here to help.
Every fireplace, with the exception of a vent-free gas fireplace, needs a properly working damper, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re experiencing issues.
Damper Repair & Replacement: How Do Fireplace Dampers Typically Break?
The most common causes of damper damage are moisture, age, and creosote buildup.
- Moisture: Moisture can destroy just about every part of the fireplace and chimney system, including the damper. No matter the cause of moisture intrusion, it can rust and warp the damper, making it ineffective and difficult to open, close, or properly seal.
- Age & Use: Age and use can also do a number on the damper. Over time, dampers will simply break down, fall off its track, or lose parts. In these cases, it’s best to replace it with something newer and more modern.
- Creosote: Creosote is a highly flammable and corrosive byproduct of combustion that can build up on flue walls, smoke chambers, and – you guessed it – throat dampers. Creosote hardens and builds up over time, which can make the damper difficult to open and close. If not removed, this substance can destroy the damper.
Now, if damages are minor, a new damper may not be necessary. We usually have commonly needed damper parts on our trucks, so if a small component is missing and needs to be replaced, we can make those repairs quickly. And if the damper is off its track, we can adjust it to get it back on track.
Is creosote the issue? We’re experts in creosote removal, so we can clean the damper and use Poultice Creosote Remover (PCR) to get rid of the tougher stuff, if needed.
Chimney Cap Dampers: What Are My Fireplace Damper Replacement Options?
Sometimes simply repairing or cleaning a throat damper won’t solve the problems that homeowners frequently complain about, like cold downdrafts, smoke problems, and difficult-to-reach components. In those situations, we have a better fix: a chimney cap damper.
Here at Comfort Class, we’re proud to also offer chimney cap dampers as a more modern upgrade, and which tend to be a superior solution to fireplace damper woes. Here’s why:
- Chimney cap dampers provide superior protection. Unlike the other dampers on the market, chimney cap dampers protect the entire flue. These act as a chimney cap and a damper, and are installed up at the very top of the chimney. Many feature screens, which keep animals and birds out, while also preventing large sparks from landing on the roof or nearby trees.
- Chimney cap dampers keep out moisture. These also feature rain caps to keep rain out (even when the damper is open) and provide a watertight seal when closed, so you get protection against damaging moisture at all times.
- Chimney cap dampers keep your flue warmer (which means easier-to-start fires). Because chimney cap dampers close at the top, they keep the flue warmer for a cleaner-burning, easier-to-start fire. A warmer flue will make getting the fire going easy and will reduce the likelihood of smoke backing into your home. That’s a win-win, for sure.
- Chimney cap dampers provide an airtight seal. This helps to prevent heated air loss and cold downdrafts. If you feel cold air when you walk by your fireplace during the winter (forcing you to crank up the heat and see an increase on your monthly statement), chimney cap dampers can eliminate the problem, saving you money and making it easier to maintain a comfortable home environment.
- Chimney cap dampers are affordable. These dampers typically pay for themselves in energy savings in just a couple of years, so if you’ve been looking for ways to save money and protect your chimney, this is it.
Looking for Fireplace Damper Installation Services Near You? Reach Out Now
To learn more about the dampers, caps, and more that we offer, or to schedule an appointment to have your damper repaired or replaced, simply call Comfort Class today to set up an appointment. We’re Tulsa and Skiatook’s top choice for considerate, professional, and punctual service at reasonable prices. Reach out now – we’re happy to help!
Is a new or restored firebox needed to keep your fireplace functioning safer? Our repair services encompass that.