British consumers are feeling the pinch as energy prices continue to soar, worrying about how they will make ends meet as the cost of living rises.
Inflation has driven up the prices of everything from food to transportation, making utility bills a major worry for households.
1
Experts reveal simple hacks to help reduce energy bills Credit: Getty
A recent survey found that many people cite heating and electricity bills as one of their biggest concerns, especially now that we’re approaching the cold winter months.
But have no fear. The smart folks at Construction Megastore have come up with a great hack to cut your utility bills by up to 10% every year. And it costs just £1.
Robert Quinton, director of Construction Megastore, is here to spill the beans on how a humble tube of caulk can help you save a serious penny.
Robert explains: “Caulking is a budget-friendly sealant that, when applied correctly, can significantly improve the energy efficiency of your home.
Read more about winter hacks
“Caulking seals small gaps and cracks around windows, doors, baseboards, and bathroom fixtures to keep air, moisture, and even pesky critters out.
“This simple solution can reduce your energy bills by 5-10%, which equates to savings of around £150-250 a year in the UK.”
That’s not the only benefit.
“Caulking also protects against costly water damage,” adds Robert.
“In humid areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, caulk prevents water from seeping into walls and floors, preventing mold growth and structural damage to tracks.”
So how can you get the most out of caulking?
“Great stuff and surprisingly durable” people rave about £7.50, which traps heat and saves money
Here’s Robert’s step-by-step guide:
Choose the right caulk
Robert says, “If you’re working indoors in damp areas, use a mold-resistant silicone or acrylic latex caulk.
“For outdoor use, choose a weather-resistant caulk with UV protection.”
prepare the surface
Robert says, “Before you begin, clean and dry the surface to remove any dirt, old caulk, or paint. “Use a utility knife to scrape away any existing caulk to ensure a smooth surface. “It’s incredibly helpful.”
Cut the tip at a 45 degree angle and apply steady pressure.
Robert says: “For better control, cut the tip of the caulk tube at a 45-degree angle. Start with a small opening and can always cut more if needed.
“Apply the caulk with steady, even pressure to keep the bead consistent, giving it a clean look and creating a tight seal.”
Allow enough time for the caulk to dry
Robert says: “Cure the caulk according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
“Typically, caulk takes about 24 hours to properly cure and become durable and airtight.”
More winter laundry tips
Tackling laundry in winter can be a challenge, but these handy tips can help you navigate it.
Use a dehumidifier: Place a dehumidifier in the drying area to speed up the drying process and prevent moisture. Spin Cycle Boost: Run an extra spin cycle on your washer to remove excess moisture from your clothes and speed up drying time. Indoor Drying Rack: Invest. Place on a quality indoor drying rack near a radiator or in a well-ventilated room. Tumble dryer balls: Adding tumble dryer balls to your dryer will help your clothes dry faster and reduce static cling. Space-saving hanger: Utilize space efficiently. – Maximize indoor drying space by saving on hangers and retractable washing lines. Microfiber towels: Place microfiber towels on drying racks to absorb excess moisture from hanging clothes. Partially dry outside: On dry days, hang your clothes outside briefly before bringing them in. Finish drying.
These hacks will help you keep your laundry routine efficient and your clothes fresh during the colder months.
