5 ways to stop those winter window draughts
Recent reports suggest that up to a quarter of an average home’s heat can escape through the windows. Now we’re in the thick of winter, it’s easy to do your own research to see if this is an issue in your home. All you have to do is stand in front of the window and if you feel a draft, then you have a problem. If you’re not ready to replace the window or install double glazing, then try one of these brrrrrilliant temporary fixes:
SEAL: Buy strips of self-stick rubber weather sealing at your local DIY store. Cut long strips to fit the window, then peel and stick to the frame to close any gaps and keep out draughts.
- SHRINK FILM: Buy a window insulation kit, and follow the instructions to apply plastic shrink film to the indoor window frame with double-stick tape. Heat with a hairdryer to shrink the film and remove any wrinkles. (If need be, use bubble wrap instead. Push the bubble side of the wrap against the glass and adhere with double-sided tape.)
- BLINDS: Blinds can provide insulation while still letting in light through the windows.
- CURTAINS: Use heavy fabrics or layered curtains over the window to keep out draughts.
- SNAKES: Draft snakes or, as we like to call them, Blower Restrictors, are fabric tubes placed on a window sill or under a door to prevent cold air from creeping in. Make one by sewing a tube of fabric to fit the width of your window and then fill it with dried rice.
