Expert: James Ball - 1/3/2009

Question
I have an outdoor fp under a 16'covered patio which I think may not have the correct flue dims. here's what I know: masonary firebox, 48" x 48", flue pipe, 14"x 14" rounded internal corners,approx 16'tall as mearured from firebox floor.No chimey cap. Smokes when wind picks up. A Vacu-Stack cap has been suggested,however I want to confirm the flue is of correct dims before I spent any $$.
Thanks,
Lynn

Answer
Hello Lynn, I would start with your local building department for proper sizing of that system.
if it only happens when the wind blows then that cap might do the trick. but other things can cause wind induced down drafts. like tall trees, home in a valley, negative pressure...and so on.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have.