As energy prices continue to soar, homeowners are on the lookout for simple ways to cut costs, and one expert says a quick and affordable home improvement could save households around £100 a year.
Ilja Medvedevs, founder of Door Supplies Online, recommends sealing small gaps around doors and windows with silicone caulk. According to Medvedevs, this simple fix can prevent warm air from escaping, reducing heating bills by up to £100 annually, and even more in older or less energy-efficient homes.
Medvedevs said: “People don’t realise how much heat they lose through the tiniest cracks around door frames.
“Over time, those small gaps add up, meaning your boiler works harder and your bills go up. The good news is it costs less than £10 to fix.”
A bead of silicone caulk creates a waterproof, flexible seal that blocks cold air from entering and keeps warm air inside.
The process is straightforward, simply clean the area, cut the nozzle at an angle, run a smooth line along the gap, and finish it off with a wet finger. Medvedevs said the entire job only takes a few minutes and pays off every winter.
For best results, the expert advises applying caulk during dry weather when temperatures are above 5°C, ensuring it adheres properly and lasts longer.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, draught-proofing around doors, windows, and floors could save the average UK home around £100 a year, with even higher savings in older or less insulated properties.
Medvedevs also suggests other simple DIY tricks for keeping homes warmer without breaking the bank. These include adding draught excluders along door bottoms, sticking foam tape around window frames, and using thermal curtains for extra insulation.
He said: “With many households feeling the pinch from rising costs, small fixes like this can make a real difference.
“Not everyone can afford big upgrades like new windows or insulation. But for under £10, you can stop heat escaping and keep your home warmer for less.”
As winter approaches, quick and inexpensive home improvements like silicone caulking could help families save money, stay comfortable, and make energy bills a little more manageable this season.
