As the chill of winter sets in across South Africa, keeping your home warm becomes a top priority. With energy prices climbing and load-shedding always possible, relying solely on electric heaters can be costly and unreliable. Fortunately, good insulation can make a significant difference in keeping the cold out and the warmth in – without breaking the bank.
Here are some practical DIY insulation tips that any homeowner can implement to make winter more comfortable and energy-efficient with proven methods.
1. Seal Gaps and Cracks
The first step in effective insulation is to stop warm air from escaping and cold air from sneaking in. Use silicone caulk or weatherstripping tape to seal gaps around doors and windows. Even a small draft can significantly reduce your home’s temperature. Don’t forget to check less obvious places like electrical outlets, skirting boards, and the area around plumbing.
2. Insulate Your Windows
Windows are one of the most significant sources of heat loss. If double-glazing is out of your budget, there are affordable alternatives. Apply window insulation film to create a barrier between the glass and your indoor air. Thick thermal curtains also work wonders—keep them open during the day to let in the sun’s heat and close them at night to trap heat inside.
3. Use Rugs and Carpets
Cold air often seeps through tiled or wooden floors. Laying down rugs or carpets can act as a layer of insulation, especially in bedrooms and living areas. Not only do they keep your feet warm, but they also help retain heat in the room.
4. DIY Ceiling Insulation
Heat rises, and much escapes through your roof without proper ceiling insulation. Installing bulk insulation like fibreglass or polyester batts is a DIY job you can tackle over a weekend. Make sure you wear protective gear and follow safety instructions carefully. If your roof space allows, insulation can significantly reduce your heating needs.
5. Purchase a Door Draft Stopper
Door draft stoppers or “door snakes” are simple and very effective. To prevent cold air from flowing in, use old fabric, fill it with rice or sand, and place it at the base of doors. It’s an easy, low-cost fix that can make a noticeable difference.
6. Maximise Natural Heat
Don’t underestimate the South African sun, even in winter. Open curtains and blinds during the day to let sunlight naturally warm your rooms. South-facing windows get the most sun, so make the most of them.
With simple DIY insulation measures, you can create a warmer, more energy-efficient home this winter. These solutions don’t require big budgets or professional help—just a bit of time, effort, and a willingness to get your hands dirty.
Stay warm, stay cosy, and enjoy a snug South African winter in your well-insulated home.
Suzette Meyer is the lead author and content creator for Kandua.com, South Africa’s #1 marketplace for home services. She researches and writes the Kandua Advice articles, Cost Guides, and the Kandua Email Newsletter, drawing on the expertise of Kandua’s base of over 40 000 pros across more than 100 services, and the data gathered from the 100 000+ home service projects facilitated through the platform.
Home improvement can be daunting, and it is often difficult to find out if you are paying a fair price for your products and services. Suzette has made it her mission to help homeowners with advice on all aspects of home repair, maintenance and improvement, including how to choose the right handyman and how to make smart upgrades that improve your resale value or save costs.
