Quick fixes around the house
- Tighten loose hinges, catches and latches. If doors or windows don't fit their frames snugly, you might need repairs by a qualified builder.
- Add weather stripping. Your hardware store can advise you on which product to use to seal gaps around doors and windows.
- Seal door and window trims. Use a clear or paintable sealant to make them weather resistant.
- Fit draught excluders. Use a brush strip type for internal doors, and spring loaded automatic seals for external doors.
- Replace damaged rubber seals around aluminium joinery. You can do this yourself with the right-sized rubber or hire a professional.
- Check the ceiling hatch. Make sure it fits correctly and use weather stripping to seal it.
- Seal skirting boards and cornices. Use flexible silicon-based or latex sealants, or take them off to block gaps with expanding foam.
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Block an unused chimney or fireplace. Use a rubbish bag filled with shredded newspaper. Just make it obvious the chimney is blocked, so no-one tries to light a fire.
- Install underfloor insulation. This will reduce draughts through floorboards and reduce heat loss through the floor.
Seal gaps around wiring and plumbing
Gaps around these passages are often hidden – so look behind kitchen and bathroom cabinets, inside hot water cupboards and wardrobes.
- Use silicone sealants for smaller gaps and expanding foam for bigger gaps.
- Check extractor fans and rangehoods. If they have shutters, check they work properly.
- Check recessed downlights for draughts. You can replace them with new ones that better sealed and can be covered with insulation – ask for IC, IC-F or IC-4 LED downlights.
Create a warm, dry environment
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Heating
To prevent mould growth, rooms should be heated to at least 18˚C.
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Insulation
Make the most of your heat and reduce the risk of mould growth on cold surfaces.
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Ventilation
Move the air in your house every day to stop it getting stale and damp.