Drafty windows and doors can be a significant problem for UK homeowners, leading to reduced comfort, higher energy bills, and even potential health issues. Drafts occur when cold air from outside enters your home through gaps, cracks, or poorly sealed areas around your windows and doors. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to reduce drafts and improve the overall comfort and energy efficiency of your home. In this blog post, we’ll explore some practical solutions for minimising drafts from your windows and doors.
Identify the Source of Drafts
The first step in reducing drafts is to identify where they are coming from. Take some time to carefully inspect your windows and doors, both from the inside and outside of your home. Look for any visible gaps, cracks, or areas where the seals appear to be worn or damaged. You can also use a candle or a piece of tissue paper to help locate drafts – hold the flame or tissue near the edges of your windows and doors, and if it flickers or moves, there is likely a draft present.
Common sources of drafts include:
- Gaps between the window or door frame and the surrounding wall
- Cracks or holes in the window or door frame itself
- Worn or damaged weatherstripping around the edges of windows and doors
- Poorly fitted or misaligned windows and doors
- Single-pane or older, less energy-efficient windows
Once you have identified the source of your drafts, you can take targeted steps to address the issue and improve the overall seal of your windows and doors.
Replace Worn or Damaged Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is the flexible seal that runs around the edges of your windows and doors, helping to block drafts and maintain a tight seal when closed. Over time, weatherstripping can become worn, compressed, or damaged, reducing its effectiveness and allowing drafts to enter your home.
To reduce drafts, inspect the weatherstripping around your windows and doors and replace any sections that appear to be worn or damaged. There are several types of weatherstripping available, including foam, rubber, and brush seals, each with its own unique benefits and installation methods. Choose a weatherstripping material that is appropriate for your specific windows and doors, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
Use Draft Excluders and Door Sweeps
Draft excluders, also known as door snakes or draft stoppers, are simple but effective tools for blocking drafts that come in from beneath your doors. These devices are typically made from fabric or other soft materials and are designed to be placed along the bottom edge of your door, creating a barrier against cold air.
Door sweeps serve a similar purpose but are permanently attached to the bottom of your door. They feature a flexible seal, usually made from rubber or brush, that sweeps against the threshold as the door opens and closes, helping to maintain a tight seal and prevent drafts.
Both draft excluders and door sweeps are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great option for reducing drafts and improving the comfort of your home.
Seal Gaps and Cracks with Caulk
Small gaps and cracks around your window and door frames can be a significant source of drafts, allowing cold air to seep into your home. To address this issue, use a high-quality, weatherproof caulk to seal these gaps and improve the overall airtightness of your windows and doors.
Start by cleaning the area around the gap or crack, removing any old caulk, dirt, or debris. Then, apply a continuous bead of caulk along the length of the gap, smoothing it with a caulking tool or your finger to ensure a tight seal. Allow the caulk to dry completely before painting or touching the area.
For larger gaps or cracks, you may need to use expanding foam insulation instead of caulk. This type of insulation comes in a can and expands to fill the space, providing a tight seal and excellent insulation properties.
Install Window Insulation Film
Window insulation film is a clear, plastic material that is applied directly to the inside of your window panes, creating an additional barrier against drafts and cold air. This film is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it a popular choice for homeowners looking to reduce drafts and improve the energy efficiency of their windows.
To install window insulation film, start by cleaning your window panes thoroughly and applying double-sided tape around the edges of the window frame. Then, cut the film to size, leaving a slight overlap on all sides. Carefully apply the film to the tape, smoothing out any wrinkles or air bubbles as you go. Finally, use a hair dryer to gently heat the film, causing it to shrink and create a tight, seamless seal.
Consider Upgrading to Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors
If your windows and doors are particularly old or drafty, it may be worth considering an upgrade to more energy-efficient options. Modern windows and doors are designed with advanced features such as double or triple glazing, insulated frames, and tight-fitting seals that help to minimise drafts and improve overall thermal performance.
While upgrading your windows and doors can be a significant investment, it can also provide substantial long-term benefits, such as reduced energy bills, improved comfort, and increased property value. If you are considering an upgrade, be sure to choose products with high energy-efficiency ratings and work with a reputable, experienced installer to ensure proper fit and performance.
Conclusion
Reducing drafts from your windows and doors is an important step in improving the comfort, energy efficiency, and overall livability of your home. By identifying the source of your drafts and implementing targeted solutions such as weatherstripping, draft excluders, caulking, window insulation film, and energy-efficient upgrades, you can effectively minimise cold air infiltration and create a more pleasant living environment.
Remember, while some draft-reducing measures can be simple and inexpensive, others may require a more significant investment of time and resources. However, the long-term benefits of a more comfortable, energy-efficient home are well worth the effort. If you are unsure about how to address specific draft issues in your home, don’t hesitate to consult with a professional contractor or energy auditor who can provide expert guidance and recommendations tailored to your unique needs and circumstances.
