Are you looking to enhance your fireplace’s efficiency and protect your home from the elements? Is your throat damper rusted or difficult to use? Milwaukee chimneys need all the protection they can get to help battle the elements – from cold and snowy winters to hot and humid summers and a microburst or two for good measure. Top Mount dampers not only seal your chimney more effectively, but they are also much simpler to operate and more energy-efficient than a conventional damper. Whether you’re upgrading your existing throat damper or need a reliable replacement, the certified experts at Smoke Stacks are here to ensure your chimney functions at its best.
What is a Top Mount Damper?
Unlike conventional throat dampers, which sit just above the firebox, a top-mount damper is installed directly at the top of the chimney flue. When closed, this innovative damper creates an airtight seal over the entire flue, rather than merely blocking the firebox. This feature significantly boosts energy efficiency, helping to keep your home warm during winter and cool in summer. Additionally, top-sealing dampers feature an integrated cap, providing a complete solution to prevent moisture, pests, and wind-blown debris from obstructing the flue vent.
Throat Vs. Top Mount Damper: What’s the Difference?
A throat damper sits within the chimney’s throat, just above your fireplace. It typically consists of cast iron or steel plates that swing open or close. While it serves to block off the flue when not in use, most of the flue is open, making it vulnerable to moisture and debris from a damaged or deteriorating chimney top.
On the other hand, a top-mount damper is installed at the top of the stack. It uses a durable silicone rubber gasket that creates an airtight, watertight seal over the entire flue opening. It also significantly reduces heat loss from your home, prevents downdrafts, and provides a much more effective barrier against external elements and wildlife than a throat damper alone.
Signs Your Throat Damper Needs Repair or Replacement
Your existing throat damper may be signaling it’s time for an upgrade or repair if you notice any of these common issues:
- Visible Rust or Damaged Gasket: If the metal and rubber components of your throat damper are rusted, warped, or broken, they can no longer provide an effective seal.
- Difficulty Operating: A damper that is stiff, squeaky, or won’t fully open or close indicates mechanical problems, which can make it difficult to light or maintain a fire.
- Drafty Fireplace: Feeling a noticeable draft coming down the chimney even when the damper should be closed is a clear sign of energy loss that needs professional attention.
- Chimney Odors: If you smell smoke, creosote, or outside odors (such as dampness or animal scents) when your fireplace isn’t in use, your throat damper may not be closing or sealing properly.
- Puddles in the Firebox: A severely damaged throat damper can also allow small amounts of water to drip into the firebox when the damper is warped or the gasket is worn.
Benefits of Installing a Top Mount Damper in Southeast Wisconsin
Installing a top mount damper offers significant advantages for Milwaukee area homeowners:
- Improves Energy Efficiency
- Enhances Protection from Mother Nature
- Effective Animal Barrier
- Minimizes Downdrafts and Bad Odors
- Reduces Chimney Repairs
How Much Does it Cost?
The cost of installing a top mount damper can vary depending on factors such as the size of your flue, the specific model and material of the damper (e.g., stainless steel, aluminum), and the complexity of the installation. While it represents an initial investment, the long-term savings on energy bills, combined with enhanced protection against costly water damage and animal intrusion, make a top-mount damper a wise and valuable upgrade for any homeowner in the Milwaukee–Waukesha area. We provide transparent estimates after a thorough inspection of your chimney’s specific needs.
Milwaukee’s Best Top Mount Dampers for Sale and Installation
Smoke Stacks is Milwaukee’s premier source for the sale, installation, and repair of quality top-mount dampers, custom chimney caps, and more. Our service area spans from the sandy beaches of Shorewood and the historic village of Walker’s Point to the diverse suburbs of West Allis and surrounding townships in southeastern Wisconsin. We treat every customer like family, ensuring that each service call is handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Contact us today to schedule your appointment! Family Pride. Exceptional Results.
