Temporarily blocking a fireplace

[MartinQ]

We've got an open fireplace, which is a little draughty. In the current wind, the internal doors are rattling with all windows closed.

We don't really use it very much, so I was wondering what the best way to close it off temporarily. I don't want to block it permanently as we may want to use it infrequently.

Thanks.

[driverrob]

You're never advised to block it off entirely (i.e. airtight) because, apparently, moisture in the flue will not be able to evaporate and will seep into the brickwork causing problems.
If you have a gas heating appliance in the house it may be deemed an essential part of the air flow for it.

[Wings]

Why not measure inside the chimney outlet, and cut out some MDF or Plywood to wedge tightly inside the chimney outlet, out of site of fireplace/lounge etc. For ventilation you could cut out a hole 9” x 6” in the MDF or Plywood, to take a plastic vent of the same size.

[RedLCRB0b]

Google a `chimney balloon` or use an old pillow inside a dustbin bag.

[CO2000]

Have you got space under the floor its on ?

As if so you could cap the top of the chimney & vent the the bottom of it under the floor causing less of a eye sore (vent on your wall)

Edit
The above is if you went the plasterboarding route in time.

Edited by CO2000 on Sunday 15th November 20:57

[Elskeggso]

RedLCRB0b said:

Google a `chimney balloon`

+1, easily the best solution.

[Ferg]

driverrob said:

If you have a gas heating appliance in the house it may be deemed an essential part of the air flow for it.

That's not correct.

[MartinQ]

We've owned the house for 2 years. The previous owner replaced the boiler which is located in the kitchen. He said that if the lounge/kitchen door was closed then the boiler would 'struggle'. I don't know how true that is, or indeed what it means exactly. The replacement had a flue installed, which was routed out through the external wall. I've not noticed any problems when the doors are open or closed.

But anyway, thanks for everyone's advice. I'll take a look at the chimney balloon, which looks interesting. It's also good for absentmindedness as it just melts away if I lit a fire with it in place. Also, we have a couple of old pillows in the loft which may come in useful if I go the DIY route.

[Simpo Two]

I just use screwed up newspaper in mine. With a bit of twiddling you can get it to wedge in nicely.