Get matched with top fireplace pros in Horace, ND

Your chimney comes with dampers, which are similar to air vents. Dampers are metal plates that allow hot air and smoke to flow from the fireplace up your chimney and out of your home. When you close the damper, it prevents cool air from getting into your home. This is why you’ll want to check to make sure your damper is open before starting your fireplace and you want to ensure it’s closed after the fire goes out. You can open and close them via an external knob, pull chain, or lever. 

The damper, located just above the firebox, can open or close the chimney flue. The damper should remain closed unless there’s a fire burning in the fireplace. Closing the damper prevents energy loss through the chimney and cold air from seeping into the home during the winter. Opening the damper helps maintain airflow when there is a fire and prevents smoke and gases from venting into the house.

Chimney crowns may be stone, concrete, or metal but most crowns are made of concrete. It’s not recommended to build chimney crowns with mortar (which is different from concrete) due to it’s weaker composition (especially when exposed to the outside elements). Most chimney crowns are custom made to fit your home’s specific chimney.

Fireplace repair costs around $600 on average, but simple repairs can total as low as $100, while more complex repairs could reach up to $2,500 or more. The specific repair will be the most significant factor. Here are some common fireplace repairs below, along with the average pricing of each:

• Firebox repair: $160–$2,500

• Gas valve repair: $150–$300

• Hearth repair: $150–$800

• Igniter repair: $100–$150

• Mantel repair: $500–$1,200

• Pilot light repair: $100–$350

• Refractory panel repair: $200–$300

• Thermocouple repair: $75–$350

• Thermopile repair: $75–$350