Introduction

Are you tired of feeling chilly drafts in your home during the colder months? Draughts, or drafts, can make your living space uncomfortable and lead to higher energy bills. The good news is that there are several effective draught-busting tips that can help you keep your home warm and cozy, regardless of your budget. In this article, we will share 14 Draught-Busting tips that range from low-cost solutions to more substantial investments. Let’s get started!

1. Weatherstripping

The first Draught-Busting tip is weatherstripping. Weatherstrippig is essentially an affordable and easy way to seal gaps around windows and doors. Use adhesive-backed foam tape or rubber weatherstripping to block draughts and prevent cold air from entering your home.

2. Door Draught Excluders

Place draught excluders at the bottom of your doors to prevent cold air from seeping in. You can purchase door snakes or make your own using fabric and filling material.

3. Window Insulation Film

Window insulation film creates a barrier between the cold air outside and the warmth inside your home. It is a cost-effective solution that can be easily applied to windows using double-sided tape and a hairdryer to shrink the film.

4. Draught-Proof Curtains

As an effective Draught-Busting tip, you should aim to invest in thick, heavy curtains with thermal lining to block draughts and retain heat. Close them at night to create an additional layer of insulation.

5. Draught-Proof Letterbox

Install a letterbox draught excluder to prevent cold air from entering through your letterbox. This simple and inexpensive solution can make a noticeable difference in reducing draughts.

6. Chimney Balloon

If you have a fireplace that is not in use, consider using a chimney balloon to block the draught. This inflatable device is inserted into the chimney and prevents cold air from coming down.

7. Insulate Loft Hatch

The loft hatch can be a significant source of draughts. Use adhesive strips or draught-proofing tape to seal any gaps and insulate the hatch.

8. Seal Floorboards

If you have exposed floorboards, fill in any gaps or cracks with a flexible filler or silicone sealant. This will prevent draughts from coming up through the floor.

9. Insulate Pipes

Insulating pipes can help prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of freezing. Use foam pipe insulation sleeves to cover exposed pipes in areas such as the basement or attic.

10. Install Draught-Proofing Strips

Draught-proofing strips can be applied to the edges of windows and doors to create a seal. They are affordable and easy to install, providing an effective barrier against draughts.

11. Upgrade to Double Glazing

Investing in double-glazed windows can significantly reduce draughts and improve energy efficiency. While it may be a more substantial investment, the long-term savings on energy bills can make it worthwhile.

12. Insulate Walls

If you have solid walls, consider insulating them to improve energy efficiency and reduce heat loss. External wall insulation or cavity wall insulation can make a significant difference in reducing draughts.

13. Install Draught-Proof Ventilation

While it’s important to have proper ventilation in your home, draughts can still be minimized. Install draught-proof ventilation covers or trickle vents to allow airflow while reducing draughts.

14. Consider Professional Energy Audit

If you’re unsure about the sources of draughts in your home or want a comprehensive assessment, consider hiring a professional for an energy audit. They can identify areas of improvement and provide tailored recommendations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are draught-busting tips only for older homes?

A1: No, draughts can occur in homes of any age. Even newer homes can have gaps and areas where cold air can enter. These tips are applicable to all homes, regardless of their age.

Q2: How much can I save on energy bills by draught-proofing my home?

A2: The amount you can save depends on various factors, such as the size of your home and the severity of the draughts. However, draught-proofing can lead to significant energy savings and a reduction in heating costs.

Q3: Can I implement these tips myself, or do I need professional help?

A3: Many of these tips can be implemented by homeowners themselves. However, for more complex tasks, such as upgrading windows or insulating walls, it’s advisable to consult professionals for proper installation.

Q4: How often should I check for draughts in my home?

A4: It’s a good idea to check for draughts regularly, especially before the colder months. As homes settleand weather conditions change, new draughts may appear. Conducting an annual check and addressing any issues promptly will help maintain a comfortable and energy-efficient home.

Q5: Can draught-proofing also help in the summer months?

A5: Yes, draught-proofing can be beneficial in the summer as well. It helps to keep cool air inside and prevent warm air from entering, thus reducing the need for excessive air conditioning and saving on energy costs.

Q6: Are there any government incentives or grants available for draught-proofing?

A6: Depending on your location, there may be government incentives or grants available to encourage energy-efficient upgrades, including draught-proofing. Check with local authorities or energy efficiency programs to see if you qualify for any financial assistance.

Conclusion

Draughts can make your home uncomfortable and lead to higher energy bills. However, with these 14 draught-busting tips, you can effectively seal gaps, block cold air, and create a warm and cosy living space. Whether you opt for low-cost solutions like weatherstripping and door draught excluders or invest in more substantial upgrades like double glazing and wall insulation, there are options available for every budget. Take control of your home’s energy efficiency and enjoy a draught-free environment all year round. Stay warm and save money!