Beware of scammers pretending to be us! Owens Chimney Systems never cold-calls, always arrives in uniform, and only uses OUR trusted, certified professionals—your safety is our priority.
Owens Chimney Logo

Monroe
704-839-0329

Concord
704-782-7213

Charlotte
704-554-9595

Visit Our Chimney Covers Site
Financing
704-554-9595
Request An Appointment

For Chimney & Fireplace Repair Near You in Gastonia, Owens Chimney Systems Is at Your Service

Gastonia residents know there’s only one local chimney company to trust for their chimney and fireplace repair needs – that’s us. For chimney cap installations, masonry repair services, new fireplace builds, and more, give us a call or book online today. We’d be happy to help.

What Should I Do if My Fireplace Won’t Draft Properly?

If your fireplace isn’t drafting properly, there are a few things you try before calling a professional sweep in to look things over.

  • Check the damper: Sometimes the simplest answer is the correct one – is your damper open?
  • Inspect for blockages: Creosote buildup, animal nests, or debris in the flue can obstruct smoke from exiting. In these cases, a thorough cleaning by a professional will be in order.
  • Open a window: If your home is too airtight, slightly open a nearby window to allow fresh makeup air in. If this is a consistent problem, you may need to consider some more permanent makeup air solutions.
  • Prime your chimney flue: Cold chimney walls can hinder drafting, creating a wall of cold air that pushes smoke back. Warm up the flue ahead of time by burning a rolled-up newspaper near the damper before lighting your fire.

If the problem persists and none of these fixes worked, book a chimney inspection, so that a certified chimney technician can identify issues like improper chimney height, flue liner damage, or structural problems – and suggest appropriate solutions.

original vertical infographic with a dark background and white text titled "Fireplace Q&A". It asks, "What should I do if my fireplace won't draft properly?" and provides a list of bullet points: "Check the damper," "Inspect for blockages," "Open a window," and "Prime your chimney flue." Below the list, it states, "If the problem persists and none of these fixes worked, book a chimney inspection, so that a certified chimney technician can identify issues and suggest appropriate solutions." At the bottom is a white circle logo with a detailed illustration of a chimney sweep.

Chimney Repair Near Me: Can I Still Use My Fireplace if My Chimney Has Cracks or Damage?

No, you should not use your fireplace if your chimney has cracks or any type of damage. Even small, seemingly insignificant cracks in the chimney liner, masonry, or crown can allow heat, smoke, and dangerous gases (think carbon monoxide) to seep into your home. And in severe cases, structural damage can lead to chimney collapse or increase the risk of a chimney fire.

To keep your chimney system in top shape for the long haul, schedule a professional inspection every year – even if everything seems to be okay. A certified tech can assess the extent of the damage and determine if any repair services or sweepings are necessary.

original infographic with a dark background. The title "Fireplace Q&A" is at the top in a decorative font. Below, a maroon rectangular box contains the question "How can I prevent chimney fires?" A larger white speech bubble-like shape lists six bullet points with safety tips: schedule inspections, use seasoned wood, avoid burning paper or treated wood, keep the damper open, invest in a chimney cap, and don't delay chimney relining. At the bottom is a circular illustration of a chimney sweep.

How Can I Prevent Chimney Fires?

In most cases, chimney fires can be avoided, if you follow proper burning practices and maintain a steady maintenance schedule. Here’s our advice:

  • Schedule annual chimney inspections and sweepings.
  • Burn only dry, seasoned firewood.
  • Avoid using wet wood or softwoods, as these produce more smoke and creosote buildup.
  • Avoid burning paper, cardboard, or treated wood.
  • Keep the damper fully open to ensure optimal airflow.
  • Invest in a quality chimney cap to keep out debris and animals that could contribute to blockages and fire hazards.
  • If your liner is damaged, don’t wait to have your chimney relined.

Are you concerned you’ve had a chimney fire? First things first, stop using your fireplace immediately, as continued use could increase the risk of a flames spreading through your home. Even if the fire has gone out on its own, hidden damage could make your chimney unsafe. Then, contact a professional chimney sweep or inspector to assess the situation – they can check for cracks, structural damage, and lingering fire hazards.

If you experience an active fire, get everyone out of the house and call emergency services right away. Once the fire is out and the damage has been assessed, follow professional recommendations for repairs before using your fireplace again.

For Professional Chimney Repair Near Gastonia, NC, Give Us a Call

We understand the importance of a well-maintained chimney, especially during the colder months. Serving the Gastonia, NC area, we’re your local experts for all your chimney needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out for prompt and professional service. For professional chimney repair near you, give us a call.

Ready to schedule? Contact us today to book an appointment.