Seal up all the edges both at the top (from outside the building), and from the bottom (from inside the building), using waterproof silicone. Be VERY liberal with the silicone. Consider grinding down the metal on the inside to remove the rust, and using it as a nice shelf.
How does a coal chute work?
The chute, generally located in the foundation wall, was commonly a hinged door, normally made out of metal because the coal was damp and would freeze during transport. The door would open to an angled tunnel. Each week the Coal Trucks delivered the week’s fuel through these angled openings.
What is a coal shoot?
an inclined channel or vertical passage down which coal may be dropped.
Why does my house have a coal chute?
Coal delivery men traveled door-to-door to provide people the fuel they needed to power their furnace. They shoveled coal through the small door and down the chute into the basement. Once in the basement, homeowners could shovel the coal directly into the furnace.
