Draft Proofing Your Home This Winter

Photo Source: greenmoves.com.au

Like clockwork winter fell upon us on the 1st June. On these nights and early mornings we feel the cold and draughts in our homes more acutely.

Even if your home is well insulated, draughts of air can either escape or leak into your home through gaps in the seals of windows, doors, vents, exhaust fans, skirting and other main joinery. Sealing these gaps will make sure your home is comfortable all year round by keeping cold air, water, dust, noise and insects out. It will also potentially save you 25% on heating and cooling costs.

You can draught proof most of your home yourself using weather stripping, caulk, silicone sealant, polyurethane spray foam or other rubber, vinyl or metal sealants, draught stoppers, fan and vent covers. This can normally be completed within a day, making it an easy worthwhile weekend project.

To avoid much of your winter heat going out the windows, improve the comfort of your home and save on heating costs, you can install snug-fitting thermally lined curtains, Roman blinds and pelmets – good window films like Enerlogic are also a good option.  Alternatively, if you’re renovating, consider installing double glazing with energy efficient window frames.

The simplest way to find a draught is by burning a stick of incense near the main problem areas listed below and watching where the smoke drifts. Once you’ve found the gap, check the DIY ways to tackle these draughts. See websites: 

Sustainability Victoria

Your Energy Savings

Green It Yourself

Rebates
Some states offer rebates for professionally installed draught proofing while others provide free materials to concession card holders. Visit the Australian Government’s Your Energy Savings website to find out if you’re eligible.