blocked up Chimney Advice

[Wolverine]

Hi,

I have a newly constructed house, and got the builder to block up one of the fireplace/chimneys, that I had no immediate use for.

I'd like to get some sort of guard to close off the top of the chimney but I am unsure as to whether this is a good idea.

I'd like to prevent rain/wind/air from going down the chimney.

Is is a bad thing to prevent air from going down the chimney ?

if it is not a problem
Can you get a device the will do this ? if so any idea on price ?


Thanks,
Wolverine.

 

[Carpenter]

Presumably your builder left a small vent when he blocked up the fire place. This is important to prevent condensation in the flue. Likewise the terminal (at the top) must not be sealed off completely; you can fit a cowl to prevent howling draughts or to prevent the ingress of water and birds etc. Although a simple crow guard is sufficient and will look better than a cowl.