Composite doors news - beating icy draughts

An experiment is underway at a number of Victorian terrace properties in the north, where new doors are being fitted in passageways in an attempt to reduce cold draughts.

The Sheffield Telegraph reports that eight houses are being included in the test, funded by Scottish and Southern Energy, in an attempt to reduce people's bills.

Once the new doors are fitted, sensors will be used to monitor the temperatures in the passageways and the rest of the homes.

The utility provider's energy efficiency manager Stephen Millward said: "Fitting doors in these walk-throughs isn't rocket science but could make a real difference to the comfort of people's homes."

He added that the test was an example of a practical solution to the "age-old problem" of cold draughts in older homes and if successful, may be rolled out across the country.

Mark Chapman, one of the residents taking part in the Sheffield-based trial, said the fixtures have made a difference and his home is "certainly much warmer", while he was also pleased with the additional security.

Britons may wish to consider composite doors for the exterior of their homes, as the fixtures are less likely to crack or warp and allow in draughts, resulting in consumers being able to turn down their central heating.

Force 8 supply a full range of arched and composite doors.

Written by Alison Goldman