fireplace / chimney problem

thetourist

hi - i have a problem with my chimney. There is a smoke problem, a lack of draught. However it hasnt make sense to me, or to a few friends/tradesmen etc. that i had look at it, because of many things which i wont bother going into, the chimney should have had a good draught. After much investigation and a bit of research, i have come to the conclusion that the builder put in a regular 9" flue whereas if i'm correct then he should have put in a larger one to accomodate the larger front opening.
Obviously i could just put a regular fireback into the fireplace, but i want to fully investigate any other options i have before i take drastic action like that as the large fireplace is central to the design of the room. I suppose money is not really an object, so i am hoping for some options to consider.
What i think i need is an expert in this area; Does anyone know of such a person - i am in the south east, but i wouldnt necessarily limit things too much that way because i would even pay to talk to someone highly recommended over the phone.
I was thinking this type of thing must be encountered by people in revovation projects where the design calls for a large fireplace opening but the old flue is too small.
any advice welcomed

flocker

Did you check the room that it has adequate room ventilation?

Salem

Have you considered fitting one of those spinning cowel's on top outside. They can create extra draw.

thetourist

yes the room is pretty well ventilated and i have done all the usual experimenting with opening various doors/ windows etc. I havent tried a different cowl but tbh i think this is a little more serious - afaik you need to use an electric cowl to get anywhere with what you're talking about anyway. At this stage i am looking for an expert because although there are a couple of options, that being one of them, but i cant afford to just do them all triall and error ; i have to get it right first time.

thanks anyway.