Smoke Coming Back Into Room
Smoke from the fire or stove blowing back into the room instead of going up the chimney.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Chimney blocked by soot, debris, or a bird nest
- 2Poor draw due to the room being too airtight
- 3Downdraught caused by wind conditions or nearby tall structures
How Urgent Is This?
This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.
What Needs to Be Done
A chimney sweep will sweep the flue to clear any blockage, check the cowl and chimney pot, and advise on improving ventilation to the room or fitting an anti-downdraught cowl.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £183 – £447 | Materials: £100 – £277
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Try Snap and FixHow to Prevent This
Have the chimney swept at least once a year. Fit a chimney cap or cowl to prevent bird nesting. Ensure the room has adequate ventilation when using an open fire.
Related Problems
Birds have built a nest in the chimney, blocking the flue and causing noise, smell, or smoke issues.
The fire burns sluggishly with a poor draught, or the chimney does not pull smoke up effectively.
Your carbon monoxide detector is sounding, indicating potentially dangerous CO levels in the home.
Other Chimney Sweep Problems
Birds have built a nest in the chimney, blocking the flue and causing noise, smell, or smoke issues.
The fire burns sluggishly with a poor draught, or the chimney does not pull smoke up effectively.
Lumps of soot or debris falling down the chimney into the fireplace, sometimes accompanied by a draught.
An unpleasant musty, smoky, or foul odour coming from the fireplace, especially in warm or humid weather.