How to Draught Proof Your Home: A Complete DIY Guide to Staying Warm and Saving Energy

With energy bills on the rise and sustainability top of mind, draught proofing is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to make your home more energy efficient. Whether you live in a modern apartment or a period property, sealing up the gaps in your windows, doors, and floors helps retain warmth, reduce heat loss, and lower your energy usage—all without breaking the bank.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through how to draught proof your home, including tips for draught proofing doors, windows, and more. Whether you're a seasoned renovator or new to DIY home improvement, these simple projects can be tackled in an afternoon and deliver long-term benefits.

Why Draught Proofing Matters

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s cover why draught proofing is essential:

• Save on energy bills: Reduce heat loss and improve your home’s thermal efficiency.

• Increase comfort: Keep your living space warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

• Eco-friendly: Lower your carbon footprint by using less energy for heating.

• Quick and low-cost: Many solutions are easy to install and very budget-friendly.

1. Draught Proofing Windows with Self-Adhesive Foam Strips

Windows are a common culprit when it comes to heat escaping your home. Installing draught excluders such as self-adhesive foam strips around your window frames is a quick and effective fix.

What You’ll Need:

• Self-adhesive foam draught excluder

• Damp cloth

• Scissors or utility knife

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Clean the surface
Wipe down your window frame with a damp cloth to remove dust, grease, or loose paint. Let it dry thoroughly.

Step 2: Apply the foam strip
Peel away a small section of the backing paper from the self-adhesive foam strip and press it along the window frame where the casement meets the frame. Do not stretch the foam while applying—it can reduce its effectiveness over time.

Step 3: Trim corners neatly
To make corners look neat and professional, cut the ends at a 45-degree angle so the strips meet cleanly.

Step 4: Close the window
Once installed, shut the window to press the foam into place and create a tight seal.

2. How to Draught Proof Internal Doors

Internal doors—especially those that lead to colder rooms or hallways—can allow draughts to sneak through. Sealing them up helps maintain consistent temperatures in living areas.

Tools You’ll Need:

• Self-adhesive foam strips

• Brush strip or door sweep

• Scissors

• Damp cloth

DIY Steps for Draught Proofing Doors:

Step 1: Clean the door frame
Use a damp cloth to clean around the door frame, especially the rebate (where the door meets the frame).

Step 2: Install foam strips
Apply self-adhesive foam strips all around the door frame—just like you would on a window. Make sure you apply it to the frame itself, not the door stop, to avoid it rubbing off when the door closes.

Step 3: Measure the gap under the door
Not sure how big the gap is? Press a small ball of tack into the space and close the door. Then remove the tack and measure it.

Step 4: Fit a brush strip
Once you know the gap size, install a brush strip at the bottom of the door. These are great draught excluders that block airflow while allowing the door to open and close freely.

3. Draught Proofing External Doors for Maximum Impact

Front and back doors are major sources of heat loss, especially if they’re older or not well insulated. Draught proofing doors on the outside helps reduce the chill and protect against the elements.

What You’ll Need:

• Brush strip or door sweep

• Letterbox cover

• Keyhole cover

• Screwdriver and screws (usually included)

How to Get It Done:

Step 1: Fit a brush strip
Screw a brush strip to the inside bottom of the external door to block cold air from entering. Be sure to measure and trim the strip to size before fitting.

Step 2: Install a letterbox draught excluder
Drafts often sneak in through the letterbox. A letterbox cover with a spring flap or brush lining can prevent this without restricting mail delivery.

Step 3: Add a keyhole cover
Install a keyhole cover that slides or flips over the keyhole to prevent air from passing through.

Extra Draught Proofing Tips for DIY Enthusiasts

If you're diving into DIY home improvement, consider these bonus draught-proofing ideas:

• Curtains and thermal blinds: Heavy-duty curtains help trap heat in during winter months.

• Chimney balloons: If you have an unused fireplace, a chimney balloon can block cold air.

• Floorboard sealant: For wooden floors, sealing gaps between boards reduces drafts from below.

• Door snakes or fabric draught stoppers: These add charm and functionality to any room.

Final Thoughts

Draught proofing is one of the most rewarding and accessible DIY home improvement projects you can do. Whether you're installing self-adhesive foam strips around your windows or adding draught excluders to your doors, small changes can make a big impact on your comfort and energy costs.

Ready to start? Grab your tools, seal those gaps, and enjoy a warmer, more energy-efficient home all year round.