Fireplace repair. Firebox, damper, and gas log work.
A fireplace is more than the chimney. We repair the parts homeowners actually interact with: cracked firebrick in the firebox, stuck or rusted dampers, failed gas log valves, refractory panels in prefab fireplaces, and the smoke shelves and chambers that determine whether a fire draws clean or smokes you out of the room.
What's included in this service?
- Firebrick replacement in masonry fireboxes
- Refractory panel replacement in prefab (zero-clearance) fireboxes
- Damper repair, replacement, and top-mounted damper installation
- Gas log inspection, valve repair, and pilot service
- Smoke chamber parging to fix smoking-fireplace problems
- Throat damper smoke guard installation for short-flue downdraft
- Firebox mortar joint repair (refractory mortar only — not regular mortar)
When do you need this service?
- Cracked or missing firebrick in the firebox
- Damper is stuck open, stuck closed, or warped
- Gas logs will not light, run yellow instead of blue, or smell of gas
- Smoke spills into the room when you light a fire
- Refractory panels in a prefab fireplace are cracked or crumbling
- You inherited a fireplace and don't know if it is safe to light
What do homeowners ask about Fireplace Repair?
Do cracked firebricks need to be replaced?
Hairline cracks in firebrick are normal and not a safety issue. Cracks wider than 1/16", missing chunks, or cracks that go through the brick are a problem — they let heat reach the masonry behind, which is not designed to handle direct flame. We replace cracked bricks with proper firebrick set in refractory mortar.
Why does my fireplace smoke into the room?
Most common causes: damper closed or partially closed, cold flue (light a paper torch and warm it before starting the fire), chimney shorter than nearby roof peaks (downdraft), smoke chamber rough or oversized (needs parging), or a clogged flue. We diagnose with a smoke pencil and camera, then quote the right fix.
Can you replace a damper?
Yes. Throat dampers (the original cast iron or steel ones inside the firebox) can usually be repaired with a new plate or handle assembly. If the damper frame is rusted out, we install a top-mounted damper that seals at the top of the chimney with a stainless steel cable down to the firebox. Top-mount dampers also seal far better — they save energy year-round.
Do you service gas log sets?
We inspect, clean, and repair vented gas log sets. We do not install new gas line work — that is a separate plumbing license. If you need a full new gas log set with a new line, we coordinate with a licensed plumber.
Can you make a prefab fireplace usable again?
Most of the time, yes. Prefab fireboxes 15+ years old typically need new refractory panels, baffle replacement, and a new damper. Some older models are out of production and parts are scarce — in those cases, we sometimes recommend replacement of the whole firebox or conversion to a gas insert. We give you the honest math before you spend.
Where do we offer Fireplace Repair in San Diego County?
We provide fireplace repair in every city and community in San Diego County. Pick your city for local climate notes and service specifics.
See fireplace repair in all 48 cities
Homeowners who hired us for this
Bought our 1980s house with no service history on the fireplace. Their camera scan found a cracked clay tile we never would have spotted. Sweep was dust-free — couldn't tell they'd been in our living room. Written report in my inbox the next morning.
Called for a leak that two roofers had blamed on the roof. Their tech ran a hose test and showed me it was the crown — pictures and everything. Crown rebuild stopped the leak the same week. Honest work and clear pricing.
Raccoons in the chimney for two seasons. Other companies wanted to sell me a full inspection package first. Draft Pro came out, installed a stainless cap with proper mesh, and the noises stopped that night. Fair price.
Need fireplace repair in San Diego County?
Call for a free quote. Most work scheduled within the week.