Common Winter Fireplace Problems (and How to Fix Them Before They Get Worse)
There’s nothing cozier than relaxing by a warm fire on a chilly Texas evening — until your fireplace starts acting up. Whether it’s smoke billowing into the room, strange odors, or a stubborn fire that just won’t stay lit, winter fireplace problems can quickly turn comfort into frustration.
The good news? Most of these issues have simple causes — and even better solutions. At Sweeps N Ladders, we’ve helped homeowners across Dallas, McKinney, Frisco, and Prosper keep their fireplaces safe and working efficiently all winter long.
Here are some of the most common fireplace issues we see each winter — and what you can do to fix them before they lead to bigger (and more expensive) problems.
1. Smoke Filling the Room When You Start a Fire
If smoke is escaping into your home instead of flowing up the chimney, something’s not right.
Common causes include:
The damper is closed or partially stuck.
The chimney flue is cold, preventing proper draft.
Creosote buildup or blockages are restricting airflow.
Quick fix: Before lighting a fire, hold a rolled-up newspaper or hairdryer near the open damper for a minute or two to warm up the flue — this helps create the upward draft your fireplace needs.
When to call a pro: If smoke continues after a few tries, it could indicate a blockage or creosote buildup. A professional chimney cleaning can eliminate the source and restore proper airflow safely.
2. Fireplace Not Drawing Properly
A fireplace that doesn’t “draw” — meaning smoke or heat doesn’t flow up the chimney — can make your home smoky and uncomfortable.
Possible reasons:
Negative air pressure in tightly sealed homes
Obstructions in the flue
An improperly sized or damaged chimney cap
Solution:
Open a nearby window slightly to balance air pressure while the fire burns. If that doesn’t help, schedule a chimney inspection. Our experts at Sweeps N Ladders can identify whether the issue is structural, pressure-related, or due to buildup inside the flue.
3. Strange Odors Coming from Your Fireplace
A strong smoky or musty smell — especially when the fireplace isn’t in use — often points to creosote buildup or moisture inside the chimney. Sometimes, animals or debris can even become trapped under the chimney cap, causing unpleasant odors.
What to do:
Keep the damper closed when the fireplace isn’t being used.
Use a dehumidifier in damp weather.
Schedule a professional chimney cleaning and deodorizing service to remove buildup and eliminate odor-causing residue.
Odors are more than just unpleasant — they can be an early sign of moisture problems or airflow issues that need attention.
4. Cracked Firebox or Damaged Brickwork
Over time, heat and moisture can cause the firebox, bricks, or mortar joints inside your fireplace to crack or crumble. These small gaps can allow heat and smoke to escape into walls — a serious safety risk if ignored.
Signs of damage:
Crumbling mortar
Discolored or rusted metal components
Gaps in firebox brickwork
Solution:
A professional fireplace repair can restore the masonry, replace damaged bricks, and reseal joints to prevent further deterioration. Sweeps N Ladders offers fireplace and chimney repair services throughout North Texas to keep your system safe and efficient.
5. Water Leaks or Rust Stains Near the Chimney
Water is one of a chimney’s worst enemies. If you notice rust on the damper or staining on the ceiling near your fireplace, water is likely seeping in through a damaged chimney cap, cracked flashing, or missing rain pan.
Why it matters:
Even minor leaks can cause extensive structural damage — including rot, mold, and brick deterioration.
Fix:
Our team can inspect your chimney for leaks, replace your rain pan or cap, and reseal flashing to keep moisture out and your chimney strong.
Professional Fireplace Repair and Maintenance in North Texas
Whether you’re dealing with smoke, leaks, or strange smells, tackling fireplace problems early can save you from costly repairs later.
At Sweeps N Ladders, our certified technicians handle:
Fireplace and chimney inspections
Professional cleaning and creosote removal
Masonry and firebox repairs
Rain pan and cap replacement
Dryer vent cleaning for fire prevention
We proudly serve homeowners across Dallas, McKinney, Frisco, Prosper, and surrounding North Texas communities — keeping homes warm, safe, and fire-ready all winter long.
Schedule Your Fireplace Service Today
If your fireplace isn’t performing like it should, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Call the experts at Sweeps N Ladders