How To Stop A Draught From Behind Kitchen Cupboards? In 13 Ways

Have you ever felt a cold breeze coming from behind your kitchen cupboards? 

This can be frustrating, especially during the winter months when you are trying to keep your home warm.

Not only does a drought make your home feel colder, but it can also increase your energy bills. 

In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to stop a draught from behind kitchen cupboards.

Understanding Draughts

Before we discuss how to stop a draught from behind kitchen cupboards, it is important to understand what a draught is. 

A draught is a flow of air that enters your home through gaps or cracks in the walls, doors, windows, and other areas. Draughts can be caused by various factors, such as poor insulation, aging windows and doors, and gaps in the building structure.

Identifying The Source Of The Draught

To stop a draught from behind your kitchen cupboards, you need to identify the source of the draught. 

Draughts can occur in many different places in a home, including around windows and doors, through ventilation systems, and even behind kitchen cupboards.

The first step in identifying the source of a draught is to inspect the area thoroughly. 

Begin by removing any items from inside the cupboards and use a flashlight to look for any visible gaps or cracks around the cupboards, walls, or floors. 

Pay particular attention to areas where pipes or electrical wiring enter or exit the wall.

If you are unable to identify any visible gaps or cracks, try the following methods:

• Use Your Hand: On a windy day, place your hand near the area where you suspect the draught is entering. You should be able to feel a cool breeze if there is a drought.
• Use A Candle: Light a candle and hold it near the suspected area. If the flame flickers or goes out, this may indicate the presence of a draught.
• Use A Smoke Pencil: A smoke pencil is a device that releases a small amount of smoke to help detect air leaks. Hold the smoke pencil near the suspected area and observe the movement of the smoke. If it moves, this may indicate the presence of a draught.

Once you have identified the source of the draught, the next step is to prevent it from entering your kitchen.

Methods To Stop A Draught From Behind Kitchen Cupboards

1. Sealing The Gaps And Cracks

Once you have identified the gaps and cracks, you can seal them using silicone sealant or caulk. 

Apply the sealant or caulk along the edges of the gaps and smooth it out using a putty knife or your finger. 

This will help to seal the gaps and prevent air from entering your home.

2. Using Draught Excluders

Another way to stop a draught from behind your kitchen cupboards is to use draught excluders. 

Draught excluders are strips of foam or rubber that can be placed along the edges of the cupboards to prevent air from entering your home. 

They are easy to install and can be cut to fit the size of your cupboards.

3. Installing Insulation

If the source of the draught is from the walls behind the cupboards, you can install insulation to stop the flow of air. 

You can use foam insulation or mineral wool to fill the gaps and prevent air from entering your home.

4. Replacing The Cupboard Doors

If your cupboard doors are old and worn out, they may be allowing air to enter your home. 

Consider replacing your cupboard doors with new ones that fit properly and have a good seal. 

This will help to prevent air from entering your home and improve the overall look of your kitchen.

5. Covering Unused Vents

If there are unused vents behind your kitchen cupboards, you can cover them with insulation or cardboard to prevent air from entering your home. 

This will help to stop the flow of air and improve the energy efficiency of your home.

6. Using Furniture Wax

Applying furniture wax to the edges of your cupboards can also help to stop a draught. 

Simply rub a small amount of wax along the edges of the cupboards and smooth it out using a cloth. 

This will help to fill any gaps and prevent air from entering your home.

7. Repairing Damaged Skirting Boards

If there are gaps or cracks in the skirting boards behind your cupboards, you can repair them using wood filler or caulk. 

Apply the filler or caulk along the edges of the damaged skirting boards and smooth it out using a putty knife or your finger. 

This will help to seal the gaps and prevent air from entering your home.

8. Using a Draught Snake

A draught snake is a long, narrow cushion that can be placed along the bottom of your cupboard doors to prevent air from entering your home. 

They are easy to make or can be purchased from a home improvement store.

9. Adding Weatherstripping To The Cabinets

One way to prevent cold air from coming in through the cabinets is by adding weatherstripping. 

Weatherstripping is a material that seals gaps between two surfaces, such as a cabinet door and a frame. 

You can purchase weatherstripping from a hardware store and install it yourself by cutting it to the appropriate size and attaching it to the edges of the cabinets. 

This will help to prevent drafts from coming in through the gaps between the doors and the cabinet frames.

10. Adding A Toe-Kick Heater

Another way to prevent cold drafts from entering your home is by installing a toe-kick heater. 

A toe-kick heater is a small heating unit that is installed underneath your cabinets. It can help to warm the air that is coming in from outside and prevent cold air from entering your home. 

You can purchase toe-kick heaters from a home improvement store and install them yourself, or you can hire a professional to do it for you.

11. Adding A Door Sweep

Adding a door sweep to the bottom of your cabinet doors is another effective way to prevent drafts from entering your home. 

A door sweep is a strip of material that is attached to the bottom of the door and seals the gap between the door and the floor. 

You can purchase door sweeps from a hardware store and install them yourself by cutting them to the appropriate size and attaching them to the bottom of the doors.

12. Relocating The Cabinets

If you’ve tried all the other options and are still experiencing drafts from behind your kitchen cupboards, you may want to consider relocating the cabinets. 

This is a more drastic option, but it can be effective in preventing drafts. 

By moving the cabinets away from the exterior walls of your home, you can prevent cold air from entering through gaps and cracks in the walls.

13. Professional Help

If you have tried all the above methods and are still experiencing draughts from behind your kitchen cupboards, it may be time to seek professional help. 

A professional can help you identify the source of the draught and provide you with solutions to fix the problem.

You Can Check Out This Video –

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1HgxoICrPoA

What Are The Causes Of Draughts Behind Kitchen Cupboards?

There are several common causes of draughts behind kitchen cupboards:

1. Poor Insulation: If the insulation behind your kitchen cupboards is inadequate, cold air can seep through the gaps and enter your home.
2. Gaps And Cracks In Walls: If there are gaps or cracks in the walls behind your kitchen cupboards, cold air can enter your home through these openings.
3. Lack Of Weatherstripping: If your kitchen cupboards do not have weatherstripping or if the weatherstripping is old or damaged, cold air can enter your home through the gaps between the doors and the cabinet frames.
4. Inadequate Sealing: If your kitchen cupboards are not properly sealed to the wall, air can enter your home through the gaps between the cupboards and the wall.
5. Poor Ventilation: If there is poor ventilation in your kitchen, cold air can seep in through gaps and crevices and create a draft.

The Benefits Of Stopping Draughts

Stopping draughts from behind kitchen cabinets can provide several benefits for your home and your family. Here are some of the main advantages:

• Improved Comfort: Stopping draughts can help maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature by preventing cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping. This can make your home feel cozier, especially during colder months.
• Energy Savings: Draughts can cause your home to lose a significant amount of heat, which can lead to higher energy bills. By stopping draughts, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your heating bills.
• Increased Home Efficiency: Stopping draughts can improve the overall efficiency of your home by reducing heat loss and energy waste. This can make your home more sustainable and eco-friendly.
• Better Indoor Air Quality: Draughts can also allow dust, pollen, and other allergens to enter your home, which can negatively affect indoor air quality. Stopping draughts can help keep these particles out, leading to better air quality and potentially reducing allergy symptoms.
• Enhanced Home Value: Stopping draughts can also increase the value of your home by improving its energy efficiency and comfort level. This can be particularly beneficial if you plan to sell your home in the future.

Some Important Questions

1. How Can I Heat My Kitchen To Help Prevent Draughts?

Heating your kitchen can help prevent drafts by raising the temperature and reducing the temperature difference between the inside and outside of your home. 

Here are a few ways to heat your kitchen:

• Install A Toe-Kick Heater: Toe-kick heaters are small heaters that can be installed under your kitchen cabinets. They are designed to provide heat at ground level, where it is most needed, and can be an effective way to heat your kitchen.
• Use A Space Heater: A portable space heater can be used to heat your kitchen. These heaters can be easily moved from room to room and are available in a variety of sizes and styles.
• Use A Radiant Heater: Radiant heaters emit heat through infrared radiation, which can be absorbed by surfaces in your kitchen and help warm the room. These heaters are typically portable and can be moved from room to room.
• Install A Heating System: If your home does not have a central heating system, you may want to consider installing one. A central heating system can be an effective way to heat your kitchen and the rest of your home.

It’s important to note that when using any type of heater, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take appropriate safety precautions. 

Additionally, it’s important to seal any gaps or cracks in your kitchen to prevent cold air from entering your home.

2. What Are Some Different Types Of Rugs Or Runners That Can Be Used To Block Draughts?

Rugs and runners can be a stylish and effective way to block drafts in your home. Here are some different types of rugs and runners that can help block drafts:

• Wool Rugs: Wool rugs are a popular choice for blocking drafts. Wool is a natural insulator and can help to trap warm air in your home. These rugs come in a variety of styles and can be a great addition to your decor.
• Cotton Rugs: Cotton rugs are lightweight and easy to maintain, making them a popular choice for many homeowners. While they may not be as effective at blocking drafts as wool rugs, they can still provide some insulation.
• Felt Rugs: Felt rugs are made from compressed wool fibers and can be an effective way to block drafts. They are typically thicker and heavier than other types of rugs and can be a good choice for areas that experience a lot of cold air.
• Shag Rugs: Shag rugs are a fun and stylish way to block drafts. They are typically made from long, fluffy fibers and can add a cozy and warm feel to your home.
• Runners: Runners are long, narrow rugs that are designed to be placed in high-traffic areas. They can be an effective way to block drafts in hallways, doorways, and other areas where cold air may enter your home.

When choosing a rug or runner to block drafts, it’s important to consider the size and placement of the rug, as well as the materials used. 

Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the rug or runner is properly anchored to the floor to prevent it from slipping and causing a safety hazard.

3. What Are Some Different Types Of Weatherstripping That Can Be Used?

Weatherstripping is an effective way to block drafts and prevent cold air from entering your home. Here are some different types of weatherstripping that can be used:

• Door Sweeps: Door sweeps are strips of metal, plastic, or rubber that are attached to the bottom of a door to prevent drafts from entering underneath. They can be easily installed with screws or adhesive.
• Foam Tape: Foam tape is a self-adhesive strip made of foam rubber that is used to seal gaps around windows and doors. It can be an inexpensive and effective way to block drafts.
• V-Strips: V-strips are made of vinyl or metal and are used to seal gaps around the sides and top of doors and windows. They are effective at blocking drafts and are easy to install with adhesive or screws.
• Felt Weatherstripping: Felt weatherstripping is made from compressed felt and is commonly used to seal gaps around doors and windows. It can be an effective way to block drafts but may need to be replaced more frequently than other types of weatherstripping.
• Door And Window Gaskets: Door and window gaskets are strips of rubber or silicone that are used to seal gaps around doors and windows. They can be an effective way to block drafts and are easy to install with adhesive.
• Door Shoe: A door shoe is a strip of metal that is attached to the bottom of a door to prevent drafts from entering underneath. They can be easily installed with screws or adhesive.

When choosing weatherstripping, it’s important to consider the size and shape of the gap you are trying to seal, as well as the material the weatherstripping is made of. 

Additionally, it’s important to properly clean and prepare the surface before installing weatherstripping to ensure a proper seal.

4. What Are Some Trees Or Shrubs That Can Be Planted To Help Block Draughts?

Planting trees or shrubs can be an effective way to block drafts and reduce the amount of cold air entering your home. Here are some trees and shrubs that can help block drafts:

• Leyland Cypress: Leyland cypress is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can provide a dense barrier against wind and cold. It is a popular choice for blocking drafts and is easy to maintain.
• Arborvitae: Arborvitae is another evergreen tree that can be used to block drafts. It has a narrow, upright growth habit and can be planted in a row to create a dense barrier.
• Boxwood: Boxwood is a popular shrub that can be used to block drafts. It is easy to maintain and can be pruned to maintain a dense shape.
• Juniper: Juniper is a hardy evergreen shrub that can be used to block drafts. It has a dense growth habit and is easy to maintain.
• American Holly: American Holly is an evergreen tree that can provide a dense barrier against wind and cold. It has a slow growth rate but can live for many years.

When planting trees or shrubs to block drafts, it’s important to choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. 

You should also consider the size and growth habits of the plant, as well as its maintenance requirements.

5. How To Insulate Behind Kitchen Cabinets?

Insulating behind kitchen cabinets can be a bit of a challenge but is an important step in preventing draughts and reducing energy loss. Here are some steps to follow:

• Remove The Cabinet Doors: Start by removing the cabinet doors and any shelves or drawers inside.
• Locate Any Gaps Or Openings: Look for any gaps or openings in the walls or floors behind the cabinets. These can be caused by plumbing or electrical fixtures, or gaps in the wall insulation.
• Seal Gaps And Openings: Use spray foam insulation or caulking to fill any gaps or openings in the walls or floors. Be sure to let the insulation dry and cure fully before replacing the cabinet doors.
• Insulate The Cabinets: You can add insulation to the backs of the cabinets by cutting pieces of foam insulation board to fit and gluing them to the back wall of the cabinet. Alternatively, you can use fiberglass insulation batts or blown-in insulation to fill the space behind the cabinets.
• Replace The Cabinet Doors: Once the insulation is in place, replace the cabinet doors and any shelves or drawers.

It’s important to note that adding insulation behind kitchen cabinets can be a complex process and may require the help of a professional. 

It’s also important to make sure that any electrical or plumbing fixtures are properly insulated and not obstructed by insulation.

6. How Do You Ventilate Kitchen Cupboards?

Proper ventilation is important for kitchen cupboards to prevent the growth of mold and mildew and to maintain a healthy living environment. Here are some ways to ventilate kitchen cupboards:

• Install Vent Grilles: Vent grilles can be installed in the cabinet doors or walls to allow air to circulate. These grilles can be made of wood, metal, or plastic and come in a variety of sizes and styles.
• Use Vent Fans: Vent fans can be installed inside the cabinets to help circulate air and prevent moisture buildup. These fans can be battery-operated or wired into the electrical system and can be controlled with a switch or timer.
• Keep Cabinet Doors Open: Keeping the cabinet doors open when not in use can help promote air circulation and prevent moisture buildup. This is especially important after cooking or using appliances that generate steam or heat.
• Use Moisture-Absorbing Products: Products such as desiccants, silica gel packs or activated charcoal can be placed inside the cabinets to absorb excess moisture and prevent mold and mildew growth.

It’s important to note that while ventilation is necessary for kitchen cupboards, it can also allow drafts to enter the home. 

It’s important to strike a balance between proper ventilation and preventing drafts by using methods such as weatherstripping and insulation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, stopping draughts from behind kitchen cupboards is an essential step in improving the comfort and energy efficiency of your home. 

By identifying the source of the draught, insulating your cabinets, and sealing gaps and cracks, you can significantly reduce heat loss and energy waste. 

Additionally, using other methods such as weatherstripping, toe-kick heaters, and door sweeps can provide additional protection against draughts. 

Taking these measures not only saves you money on energy bills but also makes your home more eco-friendly, improves indoor air quality, and increases its overall value. 

With the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can effectively stop draughts from behind your kitchen cupboards and enjoy a more comfortable and efficient home.

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