Draught-proofing your home
Many homes in the UK don’t have enough insulation, which means warm air can easily escape and cold air can get in. If your home feels draughty, there are simple steps you can take to make it warmer and more comfortable.
Reducing draughts is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. By keeping warm air inside, you may also be able to lower your energy bills, as your heating won’t need to work as hard.
Where to check for draughts
Cold air can get in through even very small gaps. Common areas to check include:
- Windows and doors
- Letterboxes
- Chimneys and fireplaces
- Gaps in floors or skirting boards
Sealing these areas can make a noticeable difference to how warm your home feels.
Simple ways to reduce draughts
There are several easy and low-cost ways to help stop cold air getting into your home:
- Brush strips for external doors
- Draught excluders for doors
- Thermal curtains
- Letterbox brushes or covers
- Carpets or rugs with underlay
- Weatherstripping tape
- Self-adhesive sealing strips
How much could you save?
According to the Energy Saving Trust, draught-proofing could save around £25 a year, or £18 if you have an open chimney. Homes that are well sealed also stay warmer for longer, which means you may be able to turn your thermostat down slightly – helping you save even more on your energy bills.
