Chimney downdraft makes fireplaces unusable and uncomfortable. Red Brick Chimney Services has been solving downdraft problems across Lower Mainland since 2013, using proven techniques that restore proper draft and let you enjoy your fireplace again.
Here’s what you can expect to pay in:
Simple: $300–$800 for cap upgrades/minor fixes. Moderate: $800–$2,500 for extensions, specialized caps, airflow changes. Complex: $2,500–$6,000 for rebuilds/major changes. Assessment: free or $150–$300 detailed analysis.
Test chimney airflow, dampers, smoke patterns.
Downdrafts have many causes; we fix all for lasting solutions.
Present options, pros, cons, costs; recommend solution.
WorkSafe BC team delivers lasting, quality solutions—no gimmicks.
We test the system after our work to verify proper draft. We don’t consider the job done until your fireplace works correctly.
Adding height improves draft by raising the chimney above wind turbulence, using matching masonry or durable stainless steel extensions.
Specialized caps use wind energy to create updraft instead of downdraft. These work well for wind-related problems.
Traditional pots add height and can improve draft, especially on heritage homes where they’re architecturally appropriate.
Providing dedicated combustion air prevents the fireplace from competing with exhaust fans and eliminates negative pressure issues.
Reducing the fireplace opening height can improve draft by increasing velocity. Simple but often effective.
These seal at the chimney top when not in use, preventing cold air downdrafts and improving energy efficiency.
Installing a properly sized liner in an oversized flue improves draft by maintaining higher flue gas temperatures.
Correcting firebox dimensions and angles ensures proper draft development from the start.
Quality glass doors with adjustable air intake can help control draft and reduce smoking.
Short chimneys cause downdraft; extend above roof and obstacles for proper airflow.
Obstructions redirect wind down chimneys; install wind-directional caps or pots to improve draft.
Tight homes cause negative pressure; outside air kits supply combustion air, preventing down-drafts.
Oversized flues reduce draft; install a correctly sized liner or adjust the firebox opening.
Incorrect dimensions hinder draft; fix by rebuilding the firebox or adding a smoke guard.
Cracks or poor construction disrupt airflow; repair or rebuild smoke chamber with proper corbelling and smooth surfaces.
Without a cap, wind enters the flue; install a draft-inducing cap to create updraft.
Cold chimneys block warm air; pre-warm flue or install top-sealing damper to prevent drafts.
Hot air rises, creating draft that draws fresh air to feed fire.
Cold, wind, pressure, or improper dimensions disrupt natural chimney draft.
Taller chimneys boost draft, as greater height enhances pressure difference, solving issues.
Stronger drafts occur with bigger temperature differences; cold chimneys draft poorly.
We’ve solved hundreds of downdraft problems. We understand the physics of draft and know what actually works versus what’s just marketing.
We use proper diagnostic techniques to identify root causes. This ensures our solutions work the first time.
We offer various approaches at different price points. We’ll find a solution that fits your budget and actually solves the problem.
BBB Accredited and WorkSafe BC Certified. We follow proper safety standards and building codes.
If our solution doesn’t solve your downdraft problem, we’ll make it right. We stand behind our work.
We offer special pricing for seniors on all downdraft solutions.
