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Draughts from your windows and doors can account for 25 percent of the heat loss in your home. However, there are several cost-effective ways to seal off the spaces that allow chills to seep in.
Door and weather seals applied around the jambs are easy and effective fixes. Simply measure the jamb, clean the area and apply the self-adhesive foam or rubber strip.
Installing a weather-proof door seal is another option. Door seals work by pushing the flap down when the door shuts, keeping the wind and rain out and trapping warm air in.
Door snakes are another option. They come in all shapes, sizes and colours, and can be single- or double-sided. These inexpensive fixes stop draughts (as well as dust and insects) from slipping under your door.
A window loses 10 times as much heat as the same area of insulated wall. Although double-glazing helps, good quality drapes and blinds can also do the heavy lifting for keeping heat indoors.
First, make sure your windows are well-sealed. (We have a step-by-step guide for this D.I.Y. process.) Next, invest in exterior and interior window furnishings such as indoor blinds, outdoor blinds and curtains. They come in a huge range of styles and colours and can be easily installed in your home as a D.I.Y. project.
Tip: In winter, sunlight is a wonderful tool for heating the home, provided you close the blinds or curtains to trap in the heat as soon as the sun has passed.
Insulation is one of the best, most practical and most cost-effective ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, keeping things warm in winter and cool in summer. It works by trapping tiny pockets of still air within its structure, and it can be installed in the roof, above the ceiling, in the walls or under the floor. (Check out our D.I.Y. guides for all of these areas in your home.)
Carpets and rugs are an easy way to cover floorboards and insulate your home, reducing heat that’s lost through the floor. They're also a great way to add a touch of personality and of warmth to your home, while feeling great underfoot.
Tip: Make sure that any gaps and cracks in the floors are sealed, especially in old or weatherboard homes.
If you have a ceiling fan, there's usually a reverse mode for winter. This will push the warmer air down, making the room temperature more comfortable.
For lasting warmth, turn to a heater. There are a wide variety of indoor and outdoor options, from electric and gas heaters to wood-burning heaters.
If you’re looking to concentrate heat in a specific area (a home office or bedroom, for example) electric heaters are a versatile, portable and cost-effective option. Fan or panel heaters are best suited for short-term room heating, while oil column heaters are better as a longer-term heat source.
For aesthetics and room warmth, you can’t beat a wood-burning stove. (Check out our guide on everything you need to know about fireplaces.) Flued gas log fires provide similar effects but burn more cleanly and efficiently. Both need professional installation.
Outdoors, chimeneas and firepits provide ambience and a cosy gathering place, but make sure you’re clear on your local council’s regulations and understand the safety requirements before purchasing. (Check out our guide on how to choose the best outdoor heater.)
Take a look at our guide on how to winter-proof your home. We’re also sharing more information on how to heat your home.
