Draught-proofing is probably one of the cheapest and most cost effective ways to reduce your heating bills, and to feel more comfortable in your home.

Simply put, draughts are uncontrolled flows of air that let cold air in and warm air out. This not only wastes money but can make you feel cold in your home.

The Energy Saving Trust estimates that you could save on average £55 per year by draught-proofing your house.  

It is important that when dealing with draughts you are left with enough ventilation, especially in areas where moisture is produced such as bathrooms and kitchens or rooms where you have an open fire:

Where do draughts come from?  

  • windows – most commonly around the frames
  • external doors (check around edge of doors, letterboxes, cat flaps, key holes etc.)
  • suspended floorboards
  • loft hatch – draughts though your loft hatch will increase once your loft has been insulated so it is important to address this potential source
  • old extractor fans & pipework leading to outside
  • unused rooms that are not being heated

Can I draught-proof my house myself?

Draught-proofing is relatively easy to carry out and can be completed by a confident DIYer. It is also possible to get your draught-proofing measures professionally installed.

What should I use to stop draughts?

  • Many DIY and trade shops carry stock that will help you reduce draughts in your house. Depending on where the draught is coming from, commonly used products include :
  • self-adhesive foam strips (doors, windows & loft hatches)
  • brushes or wiper strips (doors and windows)
  • metal disks to cover keyholes (doors)
  • chimney cap or chimney draught excluder (chimney)
  • flexible fillers / builders caulk (suspended wooden floors)