The ‘crucial’ £1 buy that keeps your home warmer without putting the heating on – it stops mould in its tracks too
THE darker nights are already here, with the colder weather on the way.
But many people will already be worrying about energy bills as they reach for the heating switch.
According to recent surveys, many households now cite energy bills as one of their biggest concerns, particularly with the winter months ahead.
Fortunately, DIY experts from Construction Megastore can now reveal a genius hack to cut energy bills by up to 10 per cent every year - and it only costs £1.29.
Robert Quinton, Director of Construction Megastore, says caulk is the essential buy homeowners can use to save money in the long run.
“Caulk is a budget-friendly sealant that, if used correctly, can play a crucial role in making your home more energy efficient", he says.
"Applied around windows, doors, baseboards and bathroom fixtures, caulk seals small gaps and cracks where air, moisture and even pests can enter.
“By stopping air leaks, caulk prevents cold drafts in winter and keeps cool air inside during summer, easing the workload on heating and cooling systems.
"This tiny fix can cut energy bills by between 5-10%, translating to annual savings of around £150-£250 in the UK."
And if you struggle with damp and mould in your home, caulk can help with this too.
Robert adds: “Beyond energy savings, caulk protects against potentially costly water damage.
"In kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture is a constant, caulk keeps water from seeping into walls and floors, preventing mould growth and structural damage.”
Caulk can be snapped up easily in B&M for £2.49, but is even cheaper in the likes of Screwfix and Wickes at £1.29.
But Robert says applying the product effectively is key to making sure it provides a long-lasting, airtight seal.
Here, he offers his key tips for caulk application...
Choose the right caulk
“If you’re applying caulk to indoor areas prone to moisture, opt for silicone or acrylic-latex caulk with mould resistance", the DIY pro says.
"If you’re using the caulk outside, go for a weather-resistant caulk, ideally with UV protection.”
Prepare the surface
Robert advises: “Before using the caulk, clean and dry the surface to remove dirt, old caulk or paint.
"A utility knife can be used to scrape away any existing caulk. This makes sure that the surface is smooth.”
45-degree angle
“Cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle for more precise control", Robert adds.
"Start with a small opening - you can always cut more if needed. Use a steady, even pressure when applying the caulk, keeping the bead consistent for a cleaner look and better seal.”
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Drying time
Robert concludes: “Let the caulk cure according to the manufacturer's instructions.
"Caulk usually needs around 24 hours to cure properly. This makes sure that the seal is durable and airtight.”
5 ways to keep your house warm in winter
Property expert Joshua Houston shared his tips.
1. Curtains
"Windows are a common place for the outside cold to get into your home, this is because of small gaps that can let in air so always close your curtains as soon as it gets dark," he said.
This simple method gives you an extra layer of warmth as it can provide a kind of "insulation" between your window and curtain.
2. Rugs
"Your floor is another area of your home where heat can be lost and can make your home feel chilly," he continued. "You might notice on cold days, that your floor is not nice to walk on due to it freezing your feet.
"Add rugs to areas that don’t already have a carpet, this provides a layer of insulation between your bare floor and the room above."
3. Check your insulation
Check your pipes, loft space, crawlspaces and underneath floorboards.
"Loose-fill insulation is very good for this, and is a more affordable type of insulation, with a big bag being able to be picked up for around £30," Joshua explained.
4. Keep your internal doors closed
"Household members often gather in one room in the evening, and this is usually either the kitchen or living room," Joshua said.
"This means you only have to heat a small area of your home, and closing the doors keeps the heat in and the cold out."
5. Block drafts
Don't forget to check cat flaps, chimneys and letterboxes, as they can let in cold air if they aren't secure.