Draft-Proofing External Timber Doors: A Local Timber Merchant’s Guide

As a family-run timber merchant in the heart of the North of England, we’ve been supplying quality external timber doors and accessories to homes across the region for decades. We know first hand how vital it is to keep your home warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient especially during our chilly northern winters. One of the simplest yet most effective ways to achieve this is by draft-proofing your external timber doors.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through some tried-and-tested draft-proofing options, tailored to both preserve the beauty of your doors and keep your home snug.

Why Draft-Proofing Matters
Drafts creeping in through poorly sealed doors don’t just make a room feel colder—they also drive up heating bills and can let in damp and dust. For homes in the North, where we contend with a mix of cold winds and heavy rain, ensuring your external timber doors are well-sealed is essential. The good news? Draft-proofing is relatively affordable and can dramatically improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Common Draft Points Around External Doors

• Door edges: Gaps around the sides and top of the door frame.
• Thresholds: Spaces where the door meets the floor.
• Keyholes: Especially common in traditional doors with large keyways.
• Letterboxes: A frequent culprit for letting in drafts.

Draft-Proofing Solutions
Here’s our guide to draft-proofing products, all of which we stock here at our timber yard.

1. Weatherstripping for Door Edges
Weatherstripping is a simple and effective way to seal the gaps around your door. For timber doors, we recommend:

• Adhesive foam strips: Easy to install and ideal for smaller gaps.
• Rubber seals: Durable and flexible, suitable for larger gaps and frequent use.
• Brush strips: These allow the door to close smoothly while keeping drafts out, ideal for uneven surfaces.

Our tip: Always clean the door frame thoroughly before applying adhesive seals to ensure they stick well and last longer.

2. Door Threshold Seals
If there’s a noticeable draft coming from under your door, threshold seals are a must. Choose from:

• Drop-down seals: These attach to the bottom of the door and automatically lower when the door is closed.
• Brush threshold seals: Perfect for uneven flooring or outdoor doorsteps, as the bristles create a tight seal without obstructing the door’s movement.

For external doors exposed to the elements, we recommend aluminum or PVC carriers, which are more weather-resistant than wooden ones.

3. Keyhole Covers
A surprisingly simple yet effective addition, keyhole covers or escutcheons prevent drafts from sneaking in through traditional keyways. For a classic timber door, choose a brass or chrome cover to complement its style.

4. Letterbox Draught Excluders
Letterboxes are often overlooked, but they can let in significant drafts. A brush-lined letterbox plate or a letterbox with an integrated draught excluder can seal this gap effectively. We stock a range of finishes, from polished brass to matte black, to match your door hardware.

5. Insulating Panels
For doors with decorative glass panes, consider adding secondary glazing film or upgrading to double-glazed panels. This not only reduces drafts but also improves soundproofing and insulation.

Caring for Your Timber Door
Draft-proofing is only part of the equation—maintaining the integrity of your timber door is equally important. Regularly check for:

• Warping or swelling: Caused by moisture, this can compromise the fit of the door and any draft-proofing measures.
• Cracks or splits: Seal these with wood filler or a suitable sealant to prevent drafts and water ingress.
• Finish wear: Repainting or re-oiling your door every few years will protect it from the elements and maintain its beauty.

Why Choose Local?
As a family-run business, we take pride in offering expert advice tailored to our customers' needs. When you buy your external timber doors and draft-proofing products from us, you’re not just getting quality materials—you’re also supporting a local business that cares about the community.
Plus, we understand the unique challenges of draft-proofing in the North of England, where we deal with everything from howling winds to driving rain. Whatever your home needs, we’re here to help.

Conclusion
Draft-proofing your external timber door is a simple project that can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. With the right products and a little guidance, you can keep your home warm, cozy, and free from drafts all winter long.
Pop into our timber yard to chat with one of our experts, or browse our range of doors and draft-proofing solutions. Together, we’ll help you keep the cold out and the warmth in—just the way it should be.
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For tailored advice or to explore our product range, visit us at Atlantic Timber or give us a call. We’re always happy to help!