Sealing off exterior chimney cleanout, is it a good idea?

[Scout_1969]

I observed my stove pulling some air through the cast iron cleanout door on my exterior chimney.

It would seem that sealing this off would help keep the flue hotter and less likely to create creosote.

I have tried a piece of oversized aluminum foil so far.

Is sealing this off a good idea?

If so, what are some methods?

 

[BrotherBart]

I used silicone caulk. And yes it made a major difference in draft and creosote. Since then I have put a liner in that chimney. To make a gasket of it, run a small bead on the face of the frame and leave the door open until it dries.

 

[Scout_1969]

Thanks BB. I will improvise for now and wait for warmer weather or tent/insulate the area so the silicone will stick.

 

[begreen]

You can use Mortite caulk as a temporary sealant for this season. It is workable in the cold. Use the method BB described.

 

[Scout_1969]

I found this product that seems to be ideal for the current temps https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=http://www.osipro.com/tds/quad_voc_tds.pdf. It's carried by Home Depot @ ~$5+

Thanks for the reply

 

[pen]

Since I assume you want to open this from time to time, I'd at first try just taking a piece of fiberglass insulation (just a very thin sheet of it) and sticking it in the door and closing it in so that it is closed into the door seal. The stuff won't burn, is cheap, and can be thrown out if it doesn't work or you screw it up while cleaning, or it's dirty, etc.

pen