How To Make A Fireplace Draft Cover

Okay, so picture this: it’s the dead of winter, right? I’m curled up on the couch, trying to binge-watch something suitably trashy, and I can feel…a breeze? Coming from the fireplace? Seriously?! I felt like I was in a horror movie where the ghost's chilling presence was announced not by creaking doors, but by a literal gust of icy air. Turns out, my lovely, rustic fireplace was basically acting as a super-efficient cold air delivery system. Not ideal. That’s when I realised I needed a fireplace draft cover, and fast. Desperately.

Now, you might be thinking, "A what now?" A fireplace draft cover is basically a plug for your fireplace when you're not using it. It stops cold air from rushing in during the winter and warm air from escaping during the summer. Think of it as a cozy blanket for your fireplace... but, you know, more functional and less likely to give you static shock.

Why Bother? (Besides the Obvious Freezing Thing)

Look, nobody wants to add another DIY project to their list. Trust me, I get it. But here's the deal: a drafty fireplace can seriously impact your energy bills. All that cold air coming in means your heating system has to work harder (and longer) to keep your house warm. It's like trying to fill a bathtub with the drain open – you’re just throwing money down the… well, you get the idea.

Plus, it helps prevent downdrafts. Downdrafts are those annoying gusts of wind that push smoke and odors from the chimney back into your home. Not pleasant, especially if your neighbor is having a particularly…aromatic barbecue. So, think of it as an investment in your comfort and your sanity. Seriously, the sanity part is crucial. Ask me how I know.

The DIY Approach: Because Why Not?

Okay, so you're convinced (or at least mildly intrigued). Time to roll up those sleeves and get crafty! There are a few ways to tackle this, and I'm going to share the simplest, most beginner-friendly method I found. Don't worry, it doesn't involve welding or anything too intimidating.

What you'll need:

• A large piece of rigid foam insulation board (the pink or blue stuff from the hardware store).
• A measuring tape – accuracy is your friend here!
• A utility knife or sharp knife with a long blade (be careful!).
• A marker or pen.
• Some heavy-duty foil tape.
• Optional: Fabric or decorative paper to cover the foam board (for a fancier look).

Instructions:

1. Measure the fireplace opening. This is the most important step. Measure the width and height of the opening where you want to place the draft cover. Write these measurements down! Double-check them! I'm not kidding. You don't want to end up with a cover that's too small or too big. Been there, done that. It's not fun.
2. Cut the foam board. Using your measurements, carefully cut the foam board to the correct size. It's better to cut it slightly larger than you think you need, as you can always trim it down later. Safety tip: Always cut away from yourself and use a cutting board or protective surface.
3. Test the fit. Slide the foam board into the fireplace opening. It should fit snugly, but not so tight that you have to force it. If it's too big, trim it down a little at a time until it fits just right. Remember, patience is a virtue!
4. Seal the edges. This step helps to create a better seal and prevent air leaks. Use the foil tape to cover all the edges of the foam board. Make sure the tape is firmly pressed down. Think of it as duct tape's slightly more sophisticated cousin.
5. (Optional) Decorate! If you want to get fancy, you can cover the foam board with fabric or decorative paper. Use spray adhesive or double-sided tape to attach the covering to the board. This step is purely cosmetic, but hey, why not make it look nice?

Important Considerations (aka Don't Burn Your House Down)

This is not a substitute for closing the damper! Always make sure the damper is closed when you're not using the fireplace. The draft cover is just an extra layer of protection.

Never use the fireplace with the draft cover in place! This seems obvious, but I feel like I have to say it. You could start a fire (a bad one), damage your chimney, and potentially introduce carbon monoxide into your home. Seriously, don't do it.

Store the draft cover safely when not in use. Keep it in a cool, dry place where it won't get damaged or become a tripping hazard. Also, make sure everyone in the house knows where it is and what it's for. Communication is key, people!

And that's it! You've now successfully crafted your own fireplace draft cover. Hopefully, your house is now warmer, your energy bills are lower, and you can finally binge-watch your trashy TV shows in peace. You deserve it!