How to Prevent Drafts in Your Home with Quick DIY Fixes

Say Goodbye to Chilly Drafts with These Easy DIY Fixes

Ever walked past a window or door and felt a sneaky gust of cold air brush past your ankles? That unwelcome breeze is a draft, and apart from making your home less cosy, it can send your energy bills sky-high. The good news? Stopping drafts doesn’t require an expensive overhaul. A few simple fixes can keep the chill out and the warmth in, without breaking the bank.

Spot the Drafts Before They Spot You

Drafts have a way of sneaking in through the smallest of gaps. Not sure where they’re coming from? A simple way to find them is with the candle test. Light a candle and move it slowly around the edges of doors, windows, and even vents. If the flame flickers, you’ve found the culprit!

Quick DIY Fixes to Keep the Warmth In

Once those drafts are caught red-handed, it’s time to seal them up. Here are some easy and budget-friendly fixes:

• Weather Stripping: Apply adhesive strips around doors and windows to seal off gaps. It’s fast, effective, and makes a world of difference.
• Door Snakes: A classic trick that never fails. Place a fabric draft stopper along the base of doors to block chilly breezes.
• Caulking: For those sneaky gaps around window frames, a bit of caulk works wonders. Just a quick application seals up cracks and stops airflow.
• Thicker Curtains: Heavy-duty curtains act like a thermal blanket for your windows, keeping warmth in and cold out.
• DIY Window Film: An easy-to-apply plastic film adds an extra layer of insulation over windows without affecting the view.
• Close Off Unused Rooms: Keeping doors closed to rooms you’re not using prevents cold air from travelling through the house.

Insulating on a Budget

Not ready for a major investment? Small changes still make a big impact. A thick rug on timber or tiled floors adds much-needed insulation, and even sealing up keyholes and mail slots can stop unwanted draughts. If your home has an open fireplace, a temporary chimney balloon or a homemade solution like a rolled-up blanket can keep the warmth from escaping.

Why These Fixes Matter

Aside from avoiding the discomfort of cold feet and unexpected chills, preventing drafts helps maintain a more energy-efficient home. Less heat escaping means lower energy costs, so you can keep things toasty without dreading the next bill.

Warm air belongs inside, and these simple steps make sure it stays put. A few quick fixes today mean a cosier, more comfortable space for you and your family.

Happy DIY-ing!

Candeece

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