Floorboards
Draughts can come from many sources, including doors, windows, poorly insulated walls, and floorboards. A room with draughty floorboards will often feel cold due to cold air coming from the gaps between the floorboards or between the skirting boards and the floor.
These draughts can be a source of heat loss and a major culprit in high heating bills. The solution is to either install insulating material underneath the ground floor floorboards, or to use a silicone sealant to fill the gaps.
What Creates the Gaps?
Since they are made of wood, floorboards will expand and shrink depending on the temperature. This means that while they may fit tightly together in the winter, your floorboards will show gaps and the tell tale draughts during colder months.
Floorboards can also be loosened by the work of electricians or plumbers. Floorboards that have been lifted or removed in the course of a project will have expanded nail holes and may not fit as snugly when reinstalled.
Gap Sealing Products
There are several options for filling gaps in your floorboards. These include traditional fills such as silicon, wood glue mixed with sawdust, and expanding spray foam. There are also newer products on the market that resemble tape and are installed inside the crack itself, making them invisible from the outside.
The product you select will depend on your specific floor, the severity of your gaps, and your own level of 'do-it-yourself' skill. Take a look at all of your options carefully before making a selection. Although it is not necessary for you to purchase the most expensive products offered, remember that often the cost can be worthwhile. For example, although more expensive, silicone products are less probe to deterioration and will last several years, as opposed to some products that will only seal the gap for one.
Preparation
First, wash and dry your floor as normal - making sure to eliminate any debris from the gaps between the floorboards. This may include removing any old sealant that has become built up. Removing old sealant should be done with a sharp razor blade, which can be run through the gap.
Next, clear the area in which you will be working to ensure that you are not encumbered with furniture or any other objects that may get in the way. Finally, before you start applying the sealant, ensure that the area is well ventilated and, if required with your product, be sure to wear the correct protective gear such as a mask and gloves.
Safety Considerations
Make sure that you stay clear of any cables or pipes that may be running underneath your floorboards. Although filler will not create any damage, you may find yourself needing to re-screw a board into a joint.
Eliminating draughts from your floorboards is a major step to ensuring that your home is as energy efficient as possible - which means lower heating costs and more money in your pocket.
Here are some other ways British Gas can help you save:
Save on Gas and Electricity costs with British Gas. Learn More.
Save on a new Boiler with British Gas. Learn More.
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