Best Draught Excluder for Doors: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Door Specialist
If you live in a property built before 1950, you know the feeling: the heating is on, but there is still a chill running along the floorboards. In York, where nothing is ever quite square, draughty doors are one of the biggest causes of heat loss.
Many homeowners grab the cheapest foam strip they can find, only to find it peels off or prevents the door from latching properly within a week. External and internal timber doors expand and contract with the seasons, meaning you need a solution that can handle movement.
In this review, I'll walk you through three different draught proofing solutions I've encountered. We will look at a budget tape for quick fixes, a quality rubber seal that mimics professional joinery seals, and a problem-solving cushion for those large gaps at the bottom of the door.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Universal Fit"
"Marketing claims one strip fits all gaps from 1mm to 10mm."
If you put a thick seal in a tight gap, you will spring the hinges or the door won't latch. You must measure the gap with a coin or putty before buying.
The Spec: "Self-Adhesive"
"Just peel and stick for considerable longevity."
On old painted timber frames, adhesive rarely lasts more than a season unless the surface is degreased thoroughly with methylated spirits. Ideally, seals should be routed in or pinned.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Draft Excluder for Doors, Draught Excluder for Windows, Upgraded Length 5.5 Metres(L) x 9mm(W) x 9mm(T) Self-Adhesive Seal Strip Tape, Stop Draft, Grey
Huilaimi
This is a classic 'pile' or brush style strip that is ideal for sliding applications or windows, but can work on door frames where the gap varies significantly. At just over £5 for 5.5 metres, it's a low-risk investment for reducing rattles.
The Good
- Very economical solution for multiple doors
- The pile texture allows for sliding movement (good for sash windows too)
- Grey colour blends well with modern paint finishes
The Bad
- Pile can crush down over time reducing effectiveness
- Adhesive may struggle on gloss paint without prep
Installer Tip:
This pile strip is excellent for the 'hiding' side of a sliding door or sash window. If using on a hinged door, ensure the pile isn't so thick that it pushes the door out at the top, or you'll find the latch catches.
Priced at £5.09 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonDraught Excluder for Doors, D-Shape Rubber Door Seal Strip, Self-Adhesive Draft Excluder Weather Stripping for Door Frame Windows Soundproof Insulation, Suit for 2.5 to 5.5mm Gap (White, 7M)
MRSHANG
As a joiner, I favour EPDM rubber seals like this over foam. The D-profile has 'memory', meaning it springs back to shape after being compressed. This mimics the professional Aquamac seals we route into new timber frames.
The Good
- Rubber retains elasticity far longer than foam
- Hollow D-shape compresses easily, reducing strain on hinges
- Excellent acoustic properties (helps deaden noise)
The Bad
- White rubber can discolour over time with dirt
- Requires a consistent gap around the rebate
Installer Tip:
Apply this to the frame rebate (the 'stop'), not the door face. Before sticking, clean the frame with a little meths or alcohol wipe. Start from a top corner and work down, ensuring you don't stretch the rubber as you stick, or it will shrink back later.
Priced at £8.06 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonTanness Door Draft Excluder - Double-Sided Draught Excluder for Doors - Door Draft Stopper - Draught Excluder Cushion
TANNESS
Sometimes an old door in York has been trimmed so many times for new carpets that there's a huge gap at the bottom. Adhesive strips won't reach. This double-sided cushion slides under the door, sealing both sides without needing screws or glue.
The Good
- Seals large gaps beneath doors (thresholds)
- Moves with the door – no need to reposition
- Double-sided protection blocks drafts from entering and heat leaving
The Bad
- Visually bulky compared to subtle hidden seals
- Can drag on deep pile carpets making the door heavy to open
Installer Tip:
Measure your door width carefully. You will need to cut the foam inserts to size with scissors or a sharp knife. Cut them slightly shorter than the door width (about 5-10mm) so the fabric doesn't bunch up against the frame stops when you close the door.
Priced at £7.88 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between foam and rubber draught excluders?
Can I fit a draught excluder to a warped door?
Why won't my door close after fitting a seal?
Is it better to repair an old door or replace it?
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