Install Draught Excluder

Nothing is more horrible than finding yourself sitting in a draught. And while some people will just do nothing but complain about feeling so shivery, there are also those that are actually prepared to defend themselves against the cold stream of air that blows around their ankles.

Aside from keeping a home that is comfortable to stay in, draught-proofing is one practical idea that can really help you save a hefty amount of money that will more than make up for what you will pay for the cost of the work.

Simply put, draught is synonymous with higher heating bills. Thus, installing a draught excluder is nothing but practical. Here are some tips.

1. 1
   Track down the draught

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   You have to be keen in tracking down the draught indoors. Of course usually the main reasons are interior doors that havent been properly closed. However in most cases, draught comes in through ill-fitted window casements or doors and sashes. Thankfully, there is a huge range of products available in the market these days that will help you deal with virtually every draught situation. When installing these devices, it helps that you do a systematic installation, making sure that you just do not block up some few draughts and simply leave others. Ideally, seal the outside of your home. That way, it won't matter anymore if you have left your interior doors open. But make sure that you avoid blocking ventilators and air bricks so as to maintain proper circulation of air supply in your house.

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2. 2
   Check the Frame Fit

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   If your door or window frame is properly installed, you shouldn't find any gap between its frames and its walls outside. If you find one, chances are, you will end up getting draught through these places. Try using either flexible crack mastics or fillers that you can easily apply with the use of a caulking gun. The great thing about mastics is that they do not set, thus making them amenable for slight frame movements. You can also try running over the surface with a knife that is dipped in white spirit or water to achieve a clean and smooth finish.

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3. 3
   Using Simple Draught Excluders

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   These are the types of draught excluders that consist of a PVC strip or brush that is set in aluminum or plastic batten. Normally, they are sold in 36-inch lengths although most of them should be cut down to size. You can fit these excluders by simply screwing or nailing them to the bottom edge of your doors' opening side.

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4. 4
   Hinged Draught Excluders

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   One problem with the simple excluders is that they can easily drag across your floor when your door is opened. Thus, installing the hinged type of draught excluder is a good option. However, you need to have a striking plate or studs secured at the bottom of your door frame that will force its flap down over the door's gap when it is closed. The good thing about these types of excluders is that they can automatically compensate for all those uneven sills. Plus, they also deal and protect your interiors from draught brought about by large gaps.

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Outside door which is plastic?

My external door is double glazed and the seal around it in parts is not working. I have brought a draught excluder. How do I fit it on? I have looked on YouTube but can't find anything there.

Here are a few YouTube Tutorials for you to check out:

• Youtube Tutorial with brushstrip
• Green Dream showing how to apply weatherstripping
• Kansas City Power and Light Youtube Tutorial on weatherproofing doors.

All of these videos walk you through installing the excluders. In the first video, you will see how to choose the right draught excluders. The installation is basically measuring in either using self-adhesive or screws with a drill to get the strip to stay. You may also want to consider getting some clear silicone and caulking around the weatherstripping edges to keep them from falling off. It helps to protect the self-adhesive glue from water damage. Especially if the door is located on a weather wall.

If you have problems with any of the steps in this article, please ask a question for more help, or post in the comments section below.

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