Rotary-style control for damper

Question

I have a masonry fireplace with an all brick front. The fireplace has a damper that is connected to a Rotary-style control handle (I think it is made by vestal becomes it look the same as one that I have seen on web sites) that sticks out through the brick. By turning the handle I open and close the damper. I'm planning on re-facing the fireplace and installing stone veneer. By adding this extra layer, the damper handle becomes too short. How can I extend the handle in order to make it appear through the stone? Does the damper control mechanism allow for re-adjustment? OR would I have to put a new control? If new control where can I buy it from? Otherwise do you have the instructions on to extend/remove the control?

Another option would be to replace the damper control and instead of sticking through the stone veneer, change it to something more hidden (Maybe inside the fireplace)? Is there such products?

Your help is much appreciated, Thank you. Jacob

Answer

Jacob,

Yes, the new damper idea is what I would suggest. The old damper control sounds more like a cork screw style than a rotary but non the less I believe that top quite old and you would do well to replace it. Google "Lymance Dampers", Or just top mount fireplace dampers and you will find several options. In Canada, I recommend you contract with a WETT certified chimney sweep and have your system inspected as well. Best of luck to you.