How to Draught-Proof Your Windows and Doors – A Comprehensive Guide
When the winter winds whip up or the summer sun becomes unbearably hot, ensuring your home is well-insulated can make all the difference. At Lancashire Double Glazing, we know how important it is to keep your home comfortable all year round. One way to achieve this is by draught-proofing your windows and doors. In this blog post, we offer a step-by-step guide to help you tackle draughts effectively.
What is Draught-Proofing?
Before we plunge into the how-to, it’s essential to understand what draught-proofing is. Draught-proofing involves sealing up unwanted gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. It’s one of the least expensive, most efficient ways to save energy and money in any type of building.
Benefits of Draught-Proofing
Energy Efficiency
Draught-proofing can save you a significant amount on your energy bills by reducing the amount of heat that escapes your home.
Comfort
By eliminating cold draughts, your home becomes much more comfortable and cosy.
Environmental Impact
Draught-proofing also benefits the environment by reducing the amount of energy you use, thereby lessening your carbon footprint.
Draught-Proofing Your Windows
Step 1: Identify the Draughts
The first step is identifying where the draught is coming from. Hold the back of your hand close to the window’s edges. If you feel a breeze, you’ve found a draught. For a more accurate method, you can use a draught detector or smoke pencil.
Step 2: Choose Your Draught-Proofing Material
There are several draught-proofing materials you can use for windows, including self-adhesive foam strips and metal or plastic strips with brushes or wipers attached. The choice depends on the size and location of the gap and the type of window.
Step 3: Apply the Draught-Proofing Material
Clean and dry the area before applying the draught-proofing strip. Measure the window and cut the strip accordingly. Then, remove the backing paper and press the strip into place.
Draught-Proofing Your Doors
Step 1: Identify the Draughts
Use the same method as above to identify draughts in your doors. Pay special attention to the bottom, as it is a common source of draughts.
Step 2: Choose Your Draught-Proofing Material
For doors, you can use brush or hinged flap draught excluders. Alternatively, you can use a letterbox flap or seal and a keyhole cover.
Step 3: Apply the Draught-Proofing Material
Clean and dry the area before applying the draught-proofing material. Measure the door and cut the strip to size. If you’re using a brush or hinged flap draught excluder, you may need to screw it in place.
When to Seek Professional Help
While DIY draught-proofing is an excellent solution for minor draughts, significant gaps or outdated windows and doors may require professional assistance. At Lancashire Double Glazing, we offer an array of energy-efficient, draught-proof doors and windows.
In conclusion, draught-proofing your windows and doors is a simple yet effective way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Not only will it save you money, but it will also make your home more comfortable and reduce your environmental impact. As always, if you need help, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Lancashire Double Glazing.
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