Draught Proofing & Weatherstripping for Beginners

In depth

Let’s face it: a draught is more than just an annoying chill. It's wasted energy, higher heating bills, and often the cause of dampness within your home. The good news is that tackling draughts doesn’t require specialist tools or a huge amount of effort – especially if you are starting out. The key here isn’t necessarily complex sealing; it’s identifying where the air is leaking from and then using readily available materials to plug those gaps. Don't be intimidated by terms like ‘weatherstripping’ or ‘sealing’; we'll break them down.

When you hear about 'weather stripping', think of it as a flexible material that fits along the edges of doors and windows to prevent air from passing through. It comes in various forms - foam tape, rubber strips, felt – and is usually applied by sticking it onto a surface. The important thing is to measure accurately before buying; you’ll need enough to cover the entire gap. Don't worry about getting precise measurements initially. A little overlap is better than a gap that lets cold air in. Many types of weatherstripping are self-adhesive, making installation relatively straightforward, but be prepared for a bit of fiddling – particularly around corners or complex frame shapes. Consider buying extra; you’ll almost certainly need more than you initially think, and it's better to have spares than run out mid-project.

Now, 'draught proofing' is the broader term that encompasses everything designed to stop air movement. It includes weatherstripping, but also things like filling gaps around skirting boards, letterboxes, and even under doors. Initially, you’ll likely find the biggest draughts are coming through gaps around your door frames and windows. Focus on these first – sealing them effectively will have the most immediate impact on your comfort levels. You can buy simple foam strips designed to fit behind doors; these simply press into the floor and create a barrier. Don't spend a fortune on elaborate sealant kits just yet. Start with the basics: self-adhesive weatherstripping and some standard foam or felt strips.

Pay particular attention to gaps at the bottom of your internal doors, where they meet the floor. This is a common area for draughts and can be addressed using draft excluders – these are typically thick fabric tubes that you place on the floor in front of the door. These are incredibly inexpensive and make a noticeable difference. Similarly, check around the edges of any windows with wooden frames; older windows often have gaps between the frame and the glass. Again, self-adhesive weatherstripping is usually sufficient to fill these gaps. You can also use a bead of sealant (available from most DIY stores) for larger cracks, but be cautious as it’s harder to remove later if you need to adjust things.

There are some things that might seem important at first glance, but which you can safely ignore until you're more familiar with the process. For example, silicone gun seals – those small electric guns used to apply sealant – can be tricky to master. It’s easy to create uneven beads and messy finishes if you aren’t experienced. Similarly, specialised ‘air sealing tape’ designed for larger gaps might feel like a good investment, but unless you have a particularly drafty property, it's unlikely to make a significant difference. Focus on the simpler solutions first – weatherstripping and draught excluders will give you the best return for your time and effort.

Finally, remember that ‘weather sealing’ isn’t just about stopping drafts; it’s also about protecting your home from moisture. A properly sealed window or door is less likely to allow dampness to penetrate, which can lead to mould growth and damage to your walls. While you're at it, take a moment to inspect the condition of your existing seals – are they cracked, brittle, or peeling? Replacing damaged weatherstripping will ensure that it continues to perform effectively. Don’t be afraid to tackle this project gradually; small improvements can add up over time, and you’ll quickly learn what works best for your home.