Draught Proofing Measures
Exterior Doors
Where draughts can be felt then this is an indication that heat is escaping unnecessarily also. Various draught-proofing measures can be taken including fitting PVC or brush seals to exterior doors, brush seals or spring flaps to letterboxes, and putting a cover over the keyhole.
Windows
Less heat tends to be lost overall from windows compared with from walls and the roof as they cover less area. As a result of this and the relatively high cost of installing double-glazing this method is not regarded as being very cost effective with regards heat loss (although it does have benefits relating to security and noise reduction). Good draught-proofing and thermally lined curtains can protect against heat loss through windows.
Floorboards and Skirting Boards
Rooms can sometimes feel cold due to draughts rising up from gaps between floorboards or between the skirting boards and the floor. Insulating material can be installed underneath ground floor floorboards and/or silicone sealant can be used to seal the gaps.
Please note: It is important to retain some degree of ventilation in houses to prevent problems with damp and condensation, or the build up of fumes from open fires and other heating sources. Air bricks should be kept free from obstruction to avoid floor timbers rotting.
Although Home Information Packs have now been withdrawn by the government, Energy Performance Certificates are still required for all properties being marketed for sale. Installing cavity wall insulation and ensuring you have current recommended levels of loft insulation will greatly improve the energy rating of your home and thus much improve its saleability.
