Cyclaire Door Keyhole draught excluder (2 pack), neatly fitted in seconds it eliminates the draught through the keyhole, reduces heating bills, keyhole cover

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If it is not used then get the chimney sealed (in this case a professional will be needed) top and bottom. Make sure the strip is the right size to fill the gap in your window. If the strip is too big, it will get crushed and you may not be able to close the window. If it’s too small, there will still be a gap.

Controlled ventilation helps reduce condensation and damp, by letting fresh air in when needed. However, draughts are uncontrolled: they let in too much cold air and waste too much heat. If you’re happy carrying out simple DIY tasks, draught-proofing will be no problem. However, some homes, especially older homes with single glazing, will be more difficult to draught-proof. The bottom edges of front doors can be real hotspots (or should that be cold spots?) for draughts. For this reason, fitting brush strips or hinged flap draught excluders to this section of the door is highly recommended. Metal or plastic strips with brushes or wipers attached, which are long-lasting, but cost a little more.

For sliding sash windows, foam strips do not work well. It’s best to fit brush strips or consult a professional. For windows that don’t open, use a silicone sealant. If you’re thinking of replacing your windows, consider installing energy efficient windows. Probably the best known way of draught proofing a front door – and a very effective one too –is to use self-adhesive weatherproof strips.

You can fill small gaps around pipework with silicone fillers, similar to the fillers used for skirting boards and floorboards. Fill larger gaps with expanding polyurethane foam. This is sprayed into the gap, expands as it dries, and sets hard. We have more information about insulating tanks, pipework and radiators. Draught-free homes are comfortable at lower temperatures – so you may be able to turn down your thermostat, saving even more on your energy bills. Draught proofing is generally considered to be DIY work — if you can handle a screw driver and a silicone gun you should be fine. If you choose to employ people to do the work just bear in mind that it is not complex and does not need expensive specialist skills. How to Find Draughts for Draught Proofing? If you are after a more permanent solution and don't mind calling in the professionals, you might like to consider whether it is time to replace any old, single glazing in your front door. Thereafter, the movement of people around the house, moving in and out, and naturally opening and closing windows and doors will deal with other ventilation needs.Buy a chimney draught excluder – these help stop draughts and heat loss through the chimney, and are usually fitted inside the chimney or around the fireplace.