How to draught-proof doors, by B&Q on YouTube. 4 min 20 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 20 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 7
What you need
Steps
Measure the width of the door and the gap under it with a tape measure. Check the gaps down the sides and across the top too, so you buy the right size of strip.
Wipe the bottom edge of the door and the frame with a damp cloth. Let it dry fully so adhesive strips grip and screws sit flush.
Cut the brush strip or excluder to the width of the door with a hacksaw. Slide off the end cap first if your kit has one.
Fit the excluder to the inside face of the door, not the outside, so the brush sweeps over the floor as the door closes. Screw it into the bottom edge or press on the self-adhesive type.
Push a foam or rubber seal into the rebate of the door frame on the hinge side and the lock side. Press it into the groove or stick it to the frame stop.
Add a letterbox flap or brush and a keyhole cover if you have them. These small openings let in as much cold air as the gap under the door.
Close the door and check it shuts without catching. Adjust the screws or shave a little off the strip if the door drags on the floor.
Tips and common mistakes
Fit the side seal to the frame rebate rather than the door face on the hinge side, so it does not get pinched as the door swings.
Leave a small gap at the lock side so the door still latches easily.
Never block air vents, trickle vents or the gap under a gas boiler or fire, as these need airflow.
Cold air still gets through an open keyhole, so cover it as well as sealing the bottom.
Questions
Can I draught-proof a door without drilling?
Yes. Self-adhesive foam and brush strips stick to a clean, dry surface and can be peeled off later. They suit rented homes where you cannot add screws.
Why is my door still cold after sealing the bottom?
Check the letterbox, keyhole and the bottom corners of the frame. Air often comes in where the seal does not sit tight against the door.
How do I pick the right size strip?
Measure the door width and the widest gap under it. Buy a strip that covers the full gap, or the brush will not touch the floor.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
