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Draught-proof your house this winter

Posted: 27 December 2020

Tags: Family

When winter rolls around are you ready to cuddle up in your warm and cosy home? Or do you dread the winter months because of the cold and draughts that creep in?

Draught proofing is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to make your home warm and energy efficient, though in time you may be tempted to invest in our high quality double-glazed or triple-glazed doors and windows to create the cosy home you crave. So if you’re worried about the cold winds blowing in off Exmoor this winter, now’s the time to draught-proof your home.

Why should you draught-proof your home?

If you want to save money, lower your carbon footprint and increase your energy efficiency, start by draught-proofing your home. It’s quick and easy to do and could save you £60 on your heating bills.

You’ll need to start by identifying the places where cold air can get into your home – that’s usually around your doors and windows. Look out for telltale signs like curtains moving, visible light shining through gaps and even whistling noises as the wind blows in. Then check with your hand to feel if any draughts are getting through.

Make a note of how many doors and windows need attention so you can take action exactly where you need to.

How to draught-proof your windows

Depending on the type of windows you have, draught proofing can be quite straightforward, although older windows may need special attention.

For windows that open, the simplest solution is to pick up some self-adhesive draught proofing strips from the local DIY store. These are a quick fix to make your home cosy and draught proof. However, if you want a longer-lasting solution invest in more robust metal or plastic strips for more effective results.

When it comes to getting the job right, you’ll need to be precise in all your measurements. Cut strips that are just big enough to cover the gap and prevent the draughts, but not too big that you struggle to shut the window.

If you have any windows that don’t open but you notice there’s a gap that’s letting the cold sea breezes in, invest in some silicon or foam sealant to plug any gaps between the window frame and the wall. Any excess can be trimmed off and the wall repainted.

How to draught-proof your doors

Start by attaching draught-proofing strips to your external doors and any internal doors that open onto a porch or conservatory that let cold air into your home.

Your aim is to create a cosy and warm house so plug any gaps on your exterior doors that let the cold breezes in. To do this, buy a keyhole and letterbox cover as well as a draught excluder for the bottom of the door.

You won’t need to draught-proof your internal doors because that stops the circulation of warm air between rooms.

Common draught-proofing mistakes

You might not believe it but it is possible to overdo it when it comes to draught-proofing your home. Here are a few common mistakes you should try to avoid.

Let it breathe

It might be tempting to try and plug every gap but ventilation is actually critical to keep moisture under control in your home. Don’t tamper with vents, grilles or extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens as they have a fundamental role to play in keeping your home fresh and mould-free.

Don’t forget to replace draught excluders

Once you get the draughts plugged and your home is cosy and warm, it can be tempting to leave foam and brush strips in place for years. Try to avoid the temptation as they can actually damage your window frame if you don’t remove them annually.

Pay attention to detail

The finished job should look as professional as possible so take your time and pay attention to getting the details right. Don’t spoil the aesthetic of your home by doing a rushed job – instead consult a professional if you’re not confident doing it yourself.

When to consider new windows or doors

Draught-proofing can be an effective solution in the short term but eventually your doors and windows will need to be replaced.

If you’ve started to notice that your front door is warping and doesn’t fit properly, there’s condensation between the panes of your windows or they’re rattling in their frames, then it could be time to consider replacement doors and windows.

Replacing them now will mean that the fabric of your house is as thermally efficient as possible and well able to stand up to the worst a South West winter can throw at it.

Outside noise

Is outdoor noise keeping you awake at night? You may be surprised to know that noise is as much a sign of poor insulation as those draughts, and they’re both equally annoying. It could be time to replace those doors and windows.

Condensation

Misting or fogging between the panes of glass is a sure sign that the seals on your double glazing have failed and are letting in moisture. Consider upgrading to highly efficient triple glazing to keep condensation and draughts at bay.

Check your frames

It’s always a good idea to check your window and door frames for signs of peeling and cracking paint. If you spot damage to paintwork or signs of rot then it’s a good indicator that your doors and windows aren’t up to dealing with the elements – or intruders. It could be time to upgrade to keep your home cosy and secure.

Create a warm house this winter

If draught-proofing alone isn’t enough to create a warm home this winter, download our brochures for inspiration or use our Design your Solution tool to see how new doors and windows could improve the thermal efficiency and aesthetics of your home.

Ready to replace your doors and windows? Contact us today for your free, no-obligation quote.

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Draught-proof your house this winter

Why should you draught-proof your home?

How to draught-proof your windows

How to draught-proof your doors