The damper is essential for controlling the draft while the fireplace is in use and sealing the flue when it is not. A damaged or poorly sealed damper is a significant source of heat loss in the winter. We specialize in repairing sticky, rusted throat dampers and installing high-efficiency top-sealing dampers, which dramatically reduce air leaks and improve your home’s energy profile.
A failing damper is often equivalent to leaving a window open 24/7, leading to significant energy waste. Our top-sealing dampers install at the chimney crown, creating a tight, silicone rubber seal that effectively stops cold drafts from entering and conditioned air from escaping. This simple upgrade provides immediate improvements in home comfort and can lead to noticeable savings on heating bills throughout the colder months in Connecticut.
Signs include a persistent cold draft, difficulty opening or closing the damper plate, or noticeable heat loss near the fireplace even when the flue is supposedly closed.
Top-sealing dampers create a superior, airtight seal at the top of the chimney, preventing 90% more air leakage than older throat dampers. They also function as a chimney cap, keeping out animals and moisture.
If the damper frame is intact, we can often repair the mechanism. However, if the cast iron is rusted or warped, replacement with a new throat damper or an energy-efficient top-sealing unit is usually the safer, more practical long-term solution.