stop draught under door

Stop Draught Under Door A Practical Guide

Draughts can be a major nuisance in any household, often leading to increased energy bills and decreased comfort. One of the most common sources of air leaks is the area under doors. Fortunately, there are effective methods to stop draughts from sneaking in and disrupting your indoor environment. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to seal the gaps and create a more energy-efficient living space.

Understanding the Problem

Before tackling the solution, it’s important to understand why draughts occur under doors. As outdoor air flows into your home, it can lead to cold spots and an overall decrease in indoor comfort. This influx of cold air forces your heating system to work harder, resulting in higher energy consumption and costs. Addressing this issue can significantly improve your home's comfort and energy efficiency.

Identify the Source

The first step in stopping draughts is to identify where the cold air enters. A simple test is to hold a lit candle or an incense stick near the edges of your door on a windy day. If the flame flickers or the incense smoke moves, you’ve found a draughty spot. Pay attention to both the bottom and sides of the door, as gaps can occur in multiple areas.

1. Door Sweeps One of the most effective ways to block draughts is by installing a door sweep. These are typically made of rubber or nylon and are attached to the bottom of the door. When the door closes, the sweep presses against the floor, sealing the gap and preventing air from leaking through.

2. Weather Stripping For gaps along the sides or top of the door, weather stripping is an excellent solution. There are various types available, including adhesive foam tape, V-seal, and tube products. Choose one that suits the size of the gap and install it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

3. Draft Stoppers If you’re looking for a temporary solution, consider using a draft stopper. These are soft fabric tubes filled with materials such as rice or beans that can be placed at the bottom of the door. They are easy to move and can be stored away when not in use.

4. Door Snakes Similar to draft stoppers, door snakes are filled fabric tubes specifically designed to block draughts. They are available in various styles and sizes, adding a decorative touch while serving their practical purpose.

5. Thresholds If the gap between your door and the floor is significant, you may need to consider installing or adjusting a threshold. This is a strip of material that can be placed at the bottom of the door frame to bridge the gap.

Regular Maintenance

Once you’ve implemented your draught-stopping solutions, it’s important to regularly check them for effectiveness. Over time, wear and tear can diminish their efficiency, so periodic inspections will ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient.

Conclusion

Stopping draughts under doors is a manageable yet impactful home improvement task. By identifying the sources of air leakage and employing various sealing techniques, homeowners can enhance their indoor comfort while reducing energy costs. Whether you choose a more permanent solution like door sweeps and weather stripping or a temporary option like draft stoppers, taking action against draughts is a step towards a cozier, more efficient home.