An alternative to the no cost option of stuffing in folded newspaper where ever you feel a draught, is to use draught-proofing materials which can be put around windows, doors and letterboxes to stop draughts getting in. These are available from DIY shops for you to fit yourself or can be installed by contractors.

Facts and figures:

Cost £45 - £60 (DIY) £125 - £250 (contractor)
Annual saving £10 - £20
Grants see ‘Contacts’ below

(Source: 2. Insulating Your Home Wasting Energy Costs The Earth DoE)

If you undertake the draughtproofing yourself you need to choose the most appropriate type of material for the specific opening. You can buy foams, brushes, thin sections of rubber, plastic or metal, shaped sections and sealants. Some are more appropriate for doors and some for windows. Steel windows may require different materials to wooden windows.

Remember that your home should be properly ventilated to prevent the house becoming stale and stuffy. Certain heating appliances need increased ventilation. Don’t block up ventilation routes such as the vents above windows, extractor fans and other air vents. Your health may be at risk if you do.

Tip: Even when you have draughtproofed your front door it will still be worth your while to hang up a thick curtain in front to stop the heat from escaping through the wood itself!

Double glazing is one of the most expensive energy efficiency measures with the longest pay back. However if you need to change your windows anyway, replacing them with double glazed units makes sense. Using wooden framed windows is less damaging to the environment and your health than upvc models.

Facts and figures:

Cost £150 to £300 (extra cost of double glazing rather than single glazing, where frames are being replaced anyway).
Annual saving £15 to £25.

(Source: 2. Insulating Your Home Wasting Energy Costs The Earth DoE)

If you do want to double glaze your windows you could do it in stages starting with the rooms which are regularly well heated such as the living room as it is here you will feel the most benefit.