How to draught-proof exterior doors

A draughty door can be a real nuisance especially on cold winter mornings. If you draught proof your doors, you'll not only stop the cold, you'll be improving your home's energy efficiency.

Level of difficulty

Level 2: Intermediate

What you need

• Knife
• Pencil
• Pliers
• Scissors
• Screws
• Screwdriver
• External door sealer kit

The steps to follow

Note:
Draught proofing exterior doors will require you to use an external door sealer kit which you can buy from your local DIY shop.

1. The external door sealer kit should include an aluminum extrusion with a rubber strip that is used in pressing against the external side of the door, across the top and down on both sides.
2. Trim the extrusion to the correct sizes with a saw.
3. Close your door, and hold the extrusion on the top of the door. Press the strip firmly and evenly against the door; make sure that the strip makes a seal with the door.
4. Secure the extrusion with screws.
5. Repeat step 3 and 4 for both sides of the door, and make sure that the flexible strip on each side do not stick to the edge of the door because it will cause further friction and make it more difficult for the door to open and close.
6. Next, peel off the adhesive backing on the flat strip, included with the kit, and fit it at the top and bottom side of the door.
7. Now that you’ve just installed the door sealer kit to your door, you should have draught-proofed your door. If you still feel draft coming in, double check that all the extrusions and flat strips are properly fitted.

Related articles

• How to draught-proof casement windows
• Energy efficient windows
• How to make your home more energy efficient & save money

Don't want to DIY? Get recommended carpenters and joiners for your home improvement job.