Step 1 - Preparation of the Florboards

Before installing DraughtEx, it’s important to make sure the floorboard gaps are clean and free from dust, dirt, and other debris. Using a blunt tool like an old credit card, a butter knife, or a flathead screwdriver, gently loosen any build-up in the gaps.

Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush or crevice tool attachment to remove everything thoroughly.

Take care when cleaning the gaps to avoid disturbing any hidden pipework or live electrical wiring that may be hidden beneath the floor.

Step 2 - Starting the Application

Begin by inserting the first 1–2 inches of DraughtEx into the floorboard gap next to the skirting board. This should be done using your chosen blunt tool, gently pushing the sealant into place under the skirting board.

A secure start is key to a smooth and long-lasting installation so make sure it is firmly secure before moving on to the rest of the application.

It can be helpful to trim the credit card into a rounded triangular shape, which makes it easier to slide between boards and under the skirting.

Step 3 - Using the Applicator

After you have fitted DraughtEx into the first 1-2 inches of the floorboard gap, gently stretch it forward and using the supplied applicator, carefully roll it into the gap rest of the gap by gently pushing down and forward.

The wheel of the applicator includes a built-in depth guide to ensure the sealant is inserted to the correct depth as you go.

DraughtEx is designed to be flexible, so you can easily adjust the fit for gaps of varying widths. Simply stretch it slightly to fill wider gaps or allow it to compress into narrower ones.

Step 4 - Cutting to Size

As you approach the opposite skirting board, stop when you’re about 1-2 inches away. Measure the remaining length of the gap and trim the DraughtEx accordingly, leaving approximately 1 inch of surplus material.

This extra length helps ensure a snug, secure fit during the final stage of installation and allows for any minor floor movement or shrinkage that may occur over time.

You can cut DraughtEx to size easily using a pair of household scissors.

Step 5 - Finishing the Application

To complete the installation, use your chosen blunt tool to insert the final 1-2 inches of the sealant into the floorboard gap, pushing it gently under the skirting board.

This final step ensures a seamless finish and keeps the DraughtEx securely in place creating a long-lasting installation.

Repeat steps 1-5 for each gap in the room until all your floorboards have been properly sealed.

Safety Tip - Avoid Injury Risks

The supplied applicator is highly effective at installaing DraughtEx, thanks to its slimline wheel and ergonomic design. However, it's important to remember that edge of the fitting wheel can be sharp.

Always keep your leading hand at a safe distance from the applicator wheel during installation to avoid accidental injury.

The applicator should never be used as a toy and should be stored safely out of reach of children and pets.

Important Information

If you are installing DraughtEx in a room with an open fire or a gas fire, make sure that an adequate flow of air is maintained at all times as blocking airflow can lead to a dangerous build-up of carbon monoxide.

To avoid this while still preventing draughts throughout the room, consider fitting shuttable air inlets in the floor close to the fire. These can provide ventilation when needed without reducing the overall comfort of the space or affecting energy performance.