Draught proofing - A cheap and easy way to save energy

Draught proofing is a cheap and easy way to save energy in a building by blocking up unwanted gaps that let cold air in sneak in and warm air sneak out.

If you’re a dab hand at DIY then draught proofing your home is something you can do yourself, without needing to call in the professionals. However, older properties – particularly ones with single glazing – are more susceptible to draughts, and for that reason it is highly recommended that you use a professional to inspect an older home rather than attempting a DIY job.

Save energy to save money by draught proofing

Although draught proofing don’t necessarily have to be done by an expert, professional draught proofing is however likely to save you more energy because the installer knows exactly the right materials to use and where to use them. But either way draught proofing will pay for itself within a few years because a well insulated home will save you money on your home heating bills.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, draught proofing can achieve annual savings of around £55. And because draught-free properties will be more comfortable at lower temperatures it means you’ll be able to turn down your thermostat, potentially saving up to an additional £60 a year.

Doors and windows are the biggest culprits

Some homes are more susceptible to draughts then others and can be attributed to unwanted gaps in your home. So you’ll need to block up any gaps which seem to be letting cold air in and allowing warm air to escape.

• Windows

• Doors

• Letterboxes

• Pipework which leads outside

• Loft hatches

To DIY or not DIY

If you want to save some money then draught proofing your own home will cost around £120 for the materials. Using the services of a professional could cost you twice as much.

If you’re looking for quotes for draught proofing from home insulation firms in your area – or from UK-covering insulation firms – use the Builder Guide quote form to request up to three quotes.

Draught proofing windows and doors

Draught proofing materials should feature the Kitemark as a sign of quality and standards of workmanship. Use draught proofing strips to draught proof windows, either self-adhesive foam strips or plastic or metal strips which have wipers or brushes attached. The strips should be stuck around the window frame to fill the gap between the frame and the window. The  metal or plastic strips will last longer but are more expensive. It’s vital that the size of the strips is exactly right; if they are too small  then gaps will still be present, too large and you may not be able to shut the window properly.

In the case of sash windows brush strips are best utilised as the self-adhesive strips are inadequate. Alternatively it would be best to consult a draught proofing specialist.

Draught proofing doors is a low-cost way of helping to reduce the amount of heat that escapes. Gaps around door edges can be fitted with window strips, whilst a hinged flap draught excluder should be fitted at the bottom of the door. Don’t overlook letterboxes, which should be fitted with a letterbox brush or a letterbox flap.

Builder Guide can put you in touch with experienced professional technicians. We can provide up to three free quotes to meet all your insulation and damp proofing needs.