Common Mistakes When Draught Proofing A Home

Leaving the Foam Seal on for Too Long

Draught proofing a home is a great way to reduce the energy bills and make your home more comfortable. However, it can be a difficult task if you don't know what you are doing and there are some common mistakes made by people when draught proofing. In this article, we will discuss five of the most common mistakes made when draught proofing a home. 

One of the most common mistakes made when draught proofing windows is leaving the foam seal on for too long. The foam seal helps to fill any gaps between the window frame and the wall and should be left on for a maximum of 48 hours before being removed. Leaving the foam seal on for longer than 48 hours may cause the sealant to harden and crack, making it ineffective. Additionally, the foam seal should never be used as a weather strip as this can also cause problems with air leakage.

Getting the Measuring Wrong

Another common mistake when draught proofing doors is getting the measuring wrong. Accurate measurements are crucial to ensuring a successful draught proofing job, as an ill-fitted door will allow air to escape through gaps or around the edges. To get the measurements right, use a measuring tape to measure the width and height of the door frame, as well as the clearances around the frame.

Ruining the Aesthetics of Your Door with Draught Proofing

Another mistake often made when draught proofing doors is ruining the aesthetics of the door. For example, some people use plastic draught excluders or weather strips, which can detract from the look of the door. It is important to choose a draught excluder that fits in with the style of your door and complements the overall aesthetics of your home.

Using a Cheap Draught Seal for Windows

When draught proofing windows, it is important to use a quality draught sealant. A cheap sealant may seem like a good idea at first, but it won't be able to provide the same level of protection as a good quality sealant. Additionally, a low-quality sealant may not last as long as a high-quality one, which means you'll have to replace it more often.

Not Using the Best Draught Proofing Material

Finally, it is important to use the best draught proofing material for your particular door or window. There are various draught proofing materials available, such as rubber, foam, and silicone, and each has its own pros and cons. Rubber is the most common material used and is usually the cheapest option, however, it may not provide the same level of insulation as some of the other materials. Foam is another popular option, as it is easy to install and provides a good seal, while silicone is generally more durable and offers better insulation. 

In conclusion, these are some of the most common mistakes made when draught proofing a home. To ensure a successful draught proofing job, it is important to measure accurately, use the correct materials, and avoid leaving the foam seal on for too long. Additionally, it is important to choose a draught proofing material that complements the aesthetics of your home.