Hopefully we've gotten over the worst of the windy weather, but just in case, reinforce your windows and doors against the elements by fitting weatherstripping, says Julia Gray

Weatherstripping your home

Save money and feel warmer thanks to weatherstripping insulation tape.

:: Weatherstripping is tape that seals the gaps between the moving parts of a window or door. As well as helping to prevent draughts, it acts as a barrier against dust, insects and noise, and is a lot cheaper and easier to fit than double or secondary glazing. Weatherstripping comes in different types - look for one with adhesive backing to make fitting it quicker.

:: Period windows tend to be draughty, so weatherstripping is ideal for them, especially if you can't have secondary or double glazing because of planning restrictions. To prepare the window frame, remove any loose paint, then touch it up (if necessary) and leave to dry. Clean and dry the frame before applying the tape.

:: Fitting weatherstripping to sash windows is quite complicated because you need it along the top and bottom sashes (both sides), the bottom of the bottom sash, the top of the top sash and the outer meeting rail (the point where the top of the bottom sash meets the bottom of the top sash). Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the weatherstripping, and consult a good DIY book or website for the order in which to fit it on sash windows.

:: If your windows are more modern, they may have a slot designed for weatherstripping, known as a kerf. The weatherstripping needed for this has a tubular edge on one side and a lip on the other to provide a tight seal.

:: To replace tubular weatherstripping, start by prising it off from the tubular edge. Ensuring that the surface is clean and dry and that no remnants of the old tape remain, press the new weatherstripping firmly into the slot and trim to fit exactly.