build fireplace covers

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initial requirements:

  • If house has undampered fireplaces that are seldom used, install fireplace covers or glass doors.
  • If a fireplace that is often used has no dampers, install glass doors, a fireplace insert, or a woodstove. The fireplace cover discussed below should not be installed on a frequently used fireplace due to the danger of fire.

materials needed:

  • 3/4-inch rigid extruded polystyrene insulation board––Dow (Styrofoam blue board), U.S. Gypsum (Foamular), or Amoco (Amofoam)

Or

  • 3/4-inch plywood
  • Fabric or self-sticking wall paper to cover insulation board or plywood

tools needed:

  • Tape rule
  • Fabric shears
  • 4-foot straightedge (yard stick, metal bar, or thin lumber that is not warped)
  • Optional:
    Circular saw

required skills: Simple handiwork for fireplace cover

annual energy savings: vary widely

average time required:

  • 1 to 3 hours/fireplace cover
  • Contractor usually can install glass doors, fireplace insert, or wood stove in a day’s time

project steps:

  1. Check to determine which fireplaces do not have dampers; order glass doors for undampered fireplaces that are used often.
  2. To make covers for those undampered fireplaces that are seldom used, first measure the size of the fireplace opening.
  3. With a utility knife, cut the rigid insulation board at least 2 inches wider and 1 inch taller than the opening or use a circular saw to cut plywood similarly.
  4. If you are covering the cut board with fabric, wrap it around the board and cut it 3/4 inch wider on the three sides with exposed edges. Then, either sew the edges to enclose the board, or glue the fabric in place.
  5. If using adhesive wall paper, cover the insulation board or plywood neatly.
  6. Set the cover in front of the fireplace and mark the exact outline of the fireplace opening on it. Cut thin pieces of the rigid insulation or plywood, and attach them to the cover so it fits inside fireplace opening. This inside edge provides a good seal between the cover and the fireplace and helps keep the cover in place.