how I created an insulated fireplace cover with pallet wood!

Have you got a drafty fireplace????

I do!  The calendar may only say November, but it has been cold around here lately,  and not just cold, but windy too. And that means that I am once again reminded of how the cold air can make the unlit fireplace feel down right cold.  Not to mention the loss of heat going right up the chimney.  I’m thinking of having a new sealing damper put on, but until I do, I needed something to help keep the family room a little more comfortable.  So I came up with an idea to help me stay warmer, it involves pallet wood.  No silly!  I’m not burning it (I don’t think that’s a good idea!) 

You start with a piece of Styrofoam installation.  I bought mine at Lowes.

 

Then you measure the inside edge of the insert and cut your foam to fit snuggly inside.  You want it to seal the opening completely.

Next cut slits in so your door handles fit inside. This will allow you to push the foam completely flush, so it’s important! 

Then I cut pallet wood to fit over the top of the Styrofoam and glued the wood to the foam with liquid nails.  I let  it dry over night.  I choose a flooring pattern. 

Using a wooden letter from Michael’s, I  laid it in the center and used Krylon Spray Wood Stain in Earthen Brown to paint over the whole piece. 

Then I removed the letter and voila, I had a cute monogramed fireplace cover.  Once it was dry, I put the panel in the opening of the fireplace. 

Now I have an insulated fireplace panel that keeps out the cold drafts and looks cute to boot!!

To start a fire we just have to pull it off and set it aside.  Remember NOT to place the cover on until your fireplace is completely cool again.  The Styrofoam is not fire-proof and neither is the pallet wood!!!  Always be safe. Remember to open your flue when starting a fire, and close it again when your fire is completely cooled. 

Hoping you stay warm and safe this winter!

Diane


Sharing @
Design Dining and Diapers
Flusterbuster
Best-diy-projects-32
Skip to my lou
My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia