How do you cover a fireplace to prevent draft?

Having a fireplace can make a home cozy and inviting, but it can also allow cold air to enter the house. Covering your fireplace when not in use is an easy way to prevent drafts and reduce your heating bills. There are several options for covering a fireplace, depending on your needs, budget and the style of your fireplace.

Why Cover a Fireplace?

There are a few key reasons you may want to cover your fireplace when it’s not in use:

• Prevent cold drafts – An open fireplace is like having a hole in your wall, allowing cold outdoor air to enter the house. Covering the fireplace seals off this airflow.
• Reduce energy costs – Drafts can force your furnace to work harder to maintain the indoor temperature, driving up heating costs.
• Keep dirt and pests out – An open flue is an invitation for birds, bugs and debris to enter your chimney. A cover blocks access.
• Moisture control – Covering the fireplace prevents excess moisture from entering the chimney, reducing dampness and potential mold growth.
• Child and pet safety – A secured cover prevents children and pets from injuring themselves in the fireplace when it’s not in use.

Investing in a good fireplace cover suitable for your needs is worth the upfront cost when you consider the energy savings and other benefits.

Types of Fireplace Covers

There are several options available for covering fireplaces, ranging from basic to more decorative choices:

Fireplace Doors

Glass fireplace doors that seal across the front opening are a popular choice. They allow you to enjoy the visual appeal of the fireplace while covering it when needed. Pros of doors:

• Allow fire viewing while providing a seal
• Wide range of styles to suit décor
• Sturdy yet removable
• Easy to use

Fireplace Plugs

These plugs insert directly into the fireplace throat. They are made of metal or inflatable materials. Benefits include:

• Inexpensive
• Fit universal sizes
• Quick and easy to install

Potential downsides are that they may not seal as tightly as other options and lack aesthetic appeal.

Chimney Balloons

An inflatable balloon is inserted into the flue and inflated to seal the chimney. Pros:

• Quick, easy installation
• Minimal visual impact
• Inexpensive

However, they may not provide a tight seal if your flue is an irregular size.

Chimney Caps

A cap sits on top of the chimney to prevent airflow while allowing smoke to exit. Benefits include:

• Durable metal construction
• Custom fit for your chimney
• Doesn’t affect fireplace appearance

Professional installation is recommended. Caps may not fully prevent downdrafts.

Fireplace Covers and Screens

Decorative screens fit inside the fireplace opening. Pros:

• Wide variety of aesthetic options
• Can be used along with doors or plugs for added protection
• Allow fire viewing

They don’t fully seal the fireplace, so are best used together with other covers.

How to Choose a Fireplace Cover

Consider the following when selecting a fireplace draft stopper:

• Fireplace type – Select a cover designed for your style of fireplace – masonry, prefabricated, gas, etc.
• Dimensions – Measure the height and width to find a properly sized cover for a tight, draft-blocking fit.
• Features – Look for durability, ease of use, weather sealing, child-proofing, and aesthetics.
• Ease of use – If you use your fireplace frequently, choose an option that can be removed and replaced easily.
• Installation – Some covers are DIY, while others require professional fitting.
• Price – Fireplace covers range from about $20 for basic plugs and balloons to over $1,000 for custom doors.

How to Install a Fireplace Cover

The installation process will vary depending on which type of fireplace draft stopper you select:

Fireplace Doors

Pre-assembled doors designed for your fireplace typically can be installed by the homeowner if you have basic tools and handy skills. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, but the basic process is:

1. Set the doors in place and mark holes for drilling.
2. Remove doors and drill pilot holes in the fireplace face.
3. Attach hinges to the fireplace using a screwdriver.
4. Hang doors and attach latch hardware.
5. Adjust hinges for proper clearance and sealing.

Fireplace Plugs

Plug inserts involve minimal installation work. Just follow these steps:

1. Sweep the firebox and remove any ashes.
2. Insert plug firmly into the fireplace throat.
3. Inflate the plug (if inflatable style) using attached air pump.
4. Check for tight fit and adjust as needed.

Chimney Balloons

Inflating a balloon in your flue to stop airflow is a quick process:

1. Ensure the flue is clear of obstructions.
2. Place deflated balloon into the flue.
3. Use attached air pump to inflate balloon to fill the chimney.
4. Tug gently to ensure a tight seal.

Chimney Caps

Chimney caps require professional installation to fit properly and attach securely. The installer will:

1. Custom measure your chimney.
2. Fabricate a cap to size.
3. Mount the cap using masonry bolts and sealant.
4. Check for proper airflow without drafts.

Chimney cap installation costs around $150-500 depending on the size and construction of your chimney.

Tips for Proper Use

Follow these guidelines to ensure your fireplace draft stopper performs effectively:

• Install covers before heating season begins.
• Close covers fully when fireplace is not in use.
• Check periodically for tight fit, re-inflating balloons and plugs as needed.
• Make sure covers are fire-resistant and rated for use with fireplaces.
• Clean and service chimney caps periodically to remove bird nests or debris.
• Never operate a fireplace with covers fully blocking the flue.
• Remove covers before lighting a fire and replace when embers are fully extinguished.

Troubleshooting Problems

If your fireplace cover is not preventing drafts, look for these common issues:

Loose Fit

• Re-check sizing and adjust for tighter seal.
• Clean cover edges and fireplace opening for clearer contact.
• Add weatherstripping to improve seal.
• Replace if cover has warped and no longer fits right.

Gaps Around Cover

• Apply high-temperature sealant to fill gaps between cover and opening.
• Seal joints between multiple-piece covers if needed.
• Upgrade to a one-piece cover that won’t separate.

Damaged Cover

• Repair cracks, dents or other damage affecting the seal.
• Replace cover if unable to repair effectively.

Blocked Chimney Cap

• Clear debris from cap and chimney crown with a brush.
• Unclog blocked flue using chimney cleaning tools.
• Upgrade to chimney cap with mesh wildlife screen.

Conclusion

Adding a fireplace cover is an easy project that can make your home more comfortable while saving on energy costs. Fireplace doors provide a complete seal while still allowing fire viewing, whereas plugs, balloons and chimney caps offer minimal visual impact. Consider your needs and budget, measure accurately, and install the cover properly for best results. With the right fireplace draft stopper in place, you can enjoy a cozy fire without sacrificing indoor heat.