Quick fixes around the house

  • Tighten loose hinges, catches and latches. If doors or windows don't fit their frames snugly, you might need repairs by a qualified builder.
  • Add weather stripping. Your hardware store can advise you on which product to use to seal gaps around doors and windows.
  • Seal door and window trims. Use a clear or paintable sealant to make them weather resistant.
  • Fit draught excluders. Use a brush strip type for internal doors, and spring loaded automatic seals for external doors.
  • Replace damaged rubber seals around aluminium joinery. You can do this yourself with the right-sized rubber or hire a professional.
  • Check the ceiling hatch. Make sure it fits correctly and use weather stripping to seal it.
  • Seal skirting boards and cornices. Use flexible silicon-based or latex sealants, or take them off to block gaps with expanding foam.
  • Block an unused chimney or fireplace. Use a rubbish bag filled with shredded newspaper. Just make it obvious the chimney is blocked, so no-one tries to light a fire.

  • Install underfloor insulation. This will reduce draughts through floorboards and reduce heat loss through the floor.

Learn more about underfloor insulation

Seal gaps around wiring and plumbing

Gaps around these passages are often hidden – so look behind kitchen and bathroom cabinets, inside hot water cupboards and wardrobes.

  • Use silicone sealants for smaller gaps and expanding foam for bigger gaps.
  • Check extractor fans and rangehoods. If they have shutters, check they work properly.
  • Check recessed downlights for draughts. You can replace them with new ones that better sealed and can be covered with insulation – ask for IC, IC-F or IC-4 LED downlights.

Create a warm, dry environment