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What causes a Smoky Fireplace?

Several factors contribute to a fireplace which fails to draw smoke up and out of the chimney:

1. There may be critical design flaws.

The smoke chamber, smoke shelf, and throat of a fireplace are all critical design components determining how well your fireplace and chimney will evacuate smoke. Smoky fireplaces are quite common in Texas and across the south, as many fireplace builders don’t understand or adhere to proper dimensions and/or specifications. One common design flaw is failure to create at least 6-9″ of masonry between the bottom of the lintel (at the fireplace opening) and the damper. Chimneys are also often too short in relation to the adjacent roof, which may allow downdrafts.

2. Fireplaces are not properly maintained. 

Since most Texans don’t rely on them as a primary source of heat, we tend to take our fireplaces for granted. If something may be obstructing the chimney, a chimney sweep may need to clean out and inspect your chimney. Birds and other animals often invade uncovered chimneys and built nests. It is critical to have a chimney cap to keep rainwater and unwelcomed animals from entering the chimney. 

3. Problems with “air tightness” (lack of available combustible air) in your home can limit airflow up the chimney.

Energy efficient, tightly sealed homes can create negative air pressure in your home, and in extreme cases leave your health at risk. If you are burning wood, this may also leave you with a fireplace which fails at times to properly draw smoke up and out of the chimney. Carbon monoxide can create a critical risk for your health and safety. More on smoking issues with fireplaces

Have an expert evaluate your fireplace if it is not drawing well.

Over the years, Brick Doctor has repaired and restored thousands of masonry fireplaces and chimneys. Our experts understand fireplaces and are eager to help you! Check out our Reviews and Testimonials or our look over our reviews in the widget collection. Or, ask a neighbor for a recommendation. We have completed thousands of jobs across the D/FW Metroplex since 1986, including some of your neighbors. Brick Doctor is always ready to answer your questions, address your concerns or provide an estimate for repairs designed for your needs.

Can We Help with your Smoky Fireplace?

Over the years, Brick Doctor has done just about everything when it comes to repairing smoky chimneys. We know what we are doing. Let us know if we can help you.

Don’t take our word for it. (Check out our reviews). And, even better, ask a neighbor for a recommendation. We have done tens of thousands of projects all over the DFW Metroplex since 1986, including for some of your neighbors.

Have any particular questions or concerns about your smoky fireplace at your home? We can help.

Brick Doctor is always ready to answer your questions, address your concerns or provide an estimate for repairs designed for the scope of your needs.

We look forward to assisting you. Reach out today. Contact us

972-234-0900
817-540-1800
info@brickdoctor.com

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