How to draught proof old fireplaces

[Nickienickie]

I live in an edwardian house and have several original fireplaces that have gaping holes up into the chimney breasts therefore allowing the hot air out iof the rooms in the winter. Does anyone know if they are a standard size and whether some sort of doors / lids can be bought for them ?

[Figi]

Why not just light a nice cosy real fire in them?!

[Nickienickie]

maybe because they are in childrens' bedrooms ??

[Fitzer]

You can get an inflatable balloon type thing to insert when they are not in use, any shop that deals with real fires etc. should be able to source one for you. in fact voila
http://www.chimney-balloon.co.uk/

[carrust]

I use an old jumper shoved up the flue. Make sure you don't seal it completely, of you might have problems with damp or the chimney breast sweating. Oh, remember to remove it if you have a fire!!

[RATTER15]

On these old fireplaces there was usually a flap up inside that you could close off but this may no longer be present.

[Nickienickie]

Thanks for the comments. just a thought, I also have a fireplace in the front room which has a gas fire in it, is it safe to close these off or should i leave it open for ventilation ?

[markja]

nick, if you block off the gas fire you run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning !!!! get a corgi registered chap round to advise you on the gas fire flue. you can close it off partially but must make sure the fire still has enough ventilation etc.

[Nickienickie]

Thanks all !

[ftw]

http://www.architectural-antiques.info/

Hi
Originally there would have been back a damper flap, if it was arched shaped fire or triangular cast flap if it was a combination fire or tiled insert.
Reprodution back flaps are available, If you can't get it locally, you can contact me for any fireplace restoration spares or products mailorder.
I am in the process or updating my website for advice on fireplace restoration and for spares and products
Cick here for an example: http://www.antiquetilecollector.com/architectu ral/clearance.html