Cold Chimney?

If you’re having smoking issues you may have a cold chimney. Exterior masonry chimneys are known for giving homeowners fits. However, a little knowledge can go a long way. Exterior masonry chimneys collect moisture when not in use (GREAT reason to have a chimney cap!) and are often much colder than the rest of your house when starting a fire. If fireplace gasses cool off before the smoke exits the chimney, a draft is going to be weak or non-existent. It is important to get a good draft and a strong fire going right away. If this is an issues you are having you will notice that starting fires gets easier the more often you use your chimney since it dries out throughout the season.