HOUSEHOLDS across the UK are trying everything they can this year to stay warm without increasing their bills.
Draught-proofing is essential regardless of how much you are spending on heating.
1
According to Energy Saving Trust draught-proofing your windows and doors could save you up to £70 a year on your energy bills.
You will want to do your best to seal doors and windows to stop hot air from leaving your home and prevent cold air from coming in.
Double glazing is great but very expensive, if you’ve got draughty doors or windows there’s a £1.99 method that can help put a stopper in those draughts.
One savvy shopper has found an affordable method of fixing her draughty front door and anyone can do it.
In the Facebook Energy Support and Advice group she shares her cheap and easy method.
She said: “For those with limited skills like me who are looking for a draught exclusion solution for doors and windows, I’ve just fitted this £1.99 foam draught excluder around the front door frame.“
“The frame couldn’t be adjusted anymore and the rubber seals had perished, so it was leaking cold air in and warm air out.”
“It was a 5-metre pack that was short by 28 cm, so get a bigger pack. So cheap, and easy to fit (just wipe the frame with rubbing alcohol before for better adhesion). Might also work on ill-fitting windows.”
Most read in Money
“That, along with a double-thickness cheap second-hand IKEA curtain pulled across as soon as it’s dark, has made a huge difference.”
The post was very well received with many group members saying they were looking into trying the hack.
One user said: “ Well done for sharing,”
Another said: “This is sold in Poundland or Poundshops.”
“Oh, I have never seen these before! Thanks for sharing,” claimed a third.
Draught seals like these are very easy to install. First, you want to make sure all your surfaces are dry and clean so your adhesive can stick properly.
Then unwind about 20cm of the brush pile and strip and peel off the backing to expose the adhesive.
When applying the adhesive you’ll want to press firmly into one end of the frame rebate. Make sure you keep the strip pulled tightly to avoid creases.
Progressively peel back the backing and push into position along the whole length of the frame.
When you finish applying the seal to your entire frame you will want to cut any remaining seal.
Before you buy one make sure you check it is suited for sealing doors as well as windows.
One of these warm seal foam draught excluders will set you back £1.99 on Amazon.
But make sure you measure the length of your frames before purchasing them as you may need more than one.
Prices for adhesive draught seals start at £9.87 at B&Q, in Wickes they are a bit cheaper at £6.
Some more energy-saving tips
Draught excluders are great if you have a door that’s just a little bit too short.
Prices for draught excluders start from a fiver in most stores but a thick blanket rolled up will work just as well.
Loft insulation is also very important as it can stop heat escaping, therefore slashing your heating bill.
You can buy insulation from all local builder merchants or retailers such as B&Q and Wickes.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].
You can also join our new Sun Money Facebook group to share stories and tips and engage with the consumer team and other group members.
