Feeling cold air around a window or external door? Small unwanted gaps can let cold air into your home and allow heat to escape.

Before winter arrives, it’s worth checking where those draughts are coming from and choosing the right way to deal with them. Draught-proofing can help reduce heat loss and make your home more comfortable.

Check Where the Draught Is Coming From

Start by checking around your window and door frames for visible gaps or areas where you can feel moving air.

Also check whether existing sealant has cracked, separated or deteriorated.

Remember, not every opening should be sealed. Trickle vents and purpose-made ventilation openings should remain open so your home has adequate ventilation.

Draughts Around Opening Windows and Doors

If cold air is coming through the gap between an opening window or door and its frame, sealant isn't necessarily the answer.

Draught-proofing strips, brushes or wiper seals are designed for these moving areas. The Energy Saving Trust recommends appropriately sized draught-proofing strips for opening windows and around the edges of external doors.

Gaps Around Fixed Frames

Gaps where a window or door frame meets the surrounding wall are different.

A suitable frame sealant can be used to seal appropriate joints around frames. For exterior window joints, Soudal recommends using a weatherproof, UV-resistant sealant and ensuring the surfaces are properly cleaned and dry before application.

For internal frame joints, a suitable paintable frame sealant or decorator's caulk may be appropriate, depending on the surfaces and joint.

What About Larger Gaps?

Larger installation gaps around windows and doors may require a different solution.

Professional window sealing systems can use PU window and door foam within the joint for thermal and acoustic insulation, alongside appropriate internal and external sealants. Always check the individual product instructions and suitability for your application.

Get Ready Before the Temperature Drops

A quick check around your windows and external doors now can help you spot unwanted gaps before colder weather sets in.

The important thing is to identify where the draught is coming from first, then choose a product designed for that particular gap, surface and location.