I’m a home expert, here’s seven ways you can instantly draught-proof your house this winter
WITH temperatures dropping many of us will be tempted to reach for the thermostat, however, the cost of living is enough to put anyone off.
Families are therefore having to turn to alternative ways of insulating and warming their homes, such as draught-proofing.
Allan Reid, a founder of has provided several tips on how to adequately draught-proof your home and prepare for the oncoming winter season.
1. Self Adhesive Strips
“Self-adhesive strips are not only easy to install but inexpensive. Many materials used are moreover weatherproof but also insulating and useful for soundproofing, meaning there are several benefits.
“As these strips are so easy to install and affordable, they are one of the most popular choices when selecting protection regarding sealing. They are particularly popular amongst renters, who may not want to utilise any permanent fixtures when draught-proofing their home.”
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2. Foam Sealant
“Foam sealant refers to a polyurethane foam, which can insulate and seal any area it is applied to.
"The substance is particularly useful in stopping draughts, providing insulation, dampening sound and filling any gaps in the structure of your home - improving racking strength by 330-400% compared to fibreglass insulation.
“If applied incorrectly or in excess, you can easily remove foam sealant using acetone (more commonly known as nail varnish remover).”
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3. Damp Traps
“Damp traps are known for reducing excess humidity in spaces. From eradicating mould, damp patches and condensation to removing the musty smell and subsequently eliminating both vermin and wood rot, these are highly effective and useful tools.
“The best damp traps are created from materials that include silica gel, clay and calcium chloride. You can additionally buy pet-friendly versions, but make sure that your critter does not directly consume any products.”
4. Secondary Glazing
“The majority of buildings in England and Wales were constructed in 1930-1982, with 46% of buildings in England constructed during this period. These older buildings subsequently lose 15-20% of their heat via draughts, especially as a significant number of properties across these areas have single-glazed windows. It was only in the 1980s that the practice of double-glazing gained popularity.
“While investing in double glazing can be expensive, there are a multitude of great benefits - especially if you’re avoiding turning the heating on. From energy-saving costs to a warmer home in the winter, a cooler residence in the summer and a reduction in condensation and noise, double glazing is a great way to reinforce your home and add value to your property.
“Similarly, if there are any windows in your home that do not open, it may be beneficial to seal these shut using a silicon-based sealant, preventing any air leaks.”
5. Covering Downlight Holes
“A downlight hole refers to a hole drilled to fit a recessed lighting fixture. These are often found in bedrooms, bathrooms and living rooms and often utilise LED bulbs. As a result, downlights often use less electricity than other lighting sources, while producing the same quality of light.
“The only downside is that these holes can sometimes provide draughts. To combat this, you can purchase covers to prevent any airflow, provide a fire rating and improve the soundproofing of your premises.”
6. Insulation Under Floorboards - and Rugs!
“By insulating under your floorboards with polyurethane foam, you can prevent any draughts flowing through gaps and make your floors warmer - so those winter mornings aren’t half as bad! Note that this is often only necessary for the ground floor, as upper floors should have significant insulation in the ceiling between floors.
“Alternatively, those looking for a less permanent fix (such as renters or individuals in temporary accommodation) can use rugs. These will similarly provide greater insulation and add sound insulation.”
7. Draught Excluders
“A draught excluder is a device that prevents the cold, outdoor air from entering your home through any gaps in entry points. These can appear in a wide variety of materials, shapes and price ranges, varying from DIY fabrics and rice to metals.
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“Fitting a draught excluder to your front doors, windows and back doors can reduce heat loss by up to 30% in certain cases, with savings of 10-20% the average. For their low cost, ranging from £10 to £30, draught excluders are well worth the expenditure.
“You can additionally buy draught excluders for any other components of your home that may let the wind in, including your letterbox, loft hatches and keyholes.”