5 Top Reasons Why You Should Not Use A Door Snake

.. and what to use instead! 

First, what do you need to know about Door Snakes?

Question – What is a door snake?

Answer – A door snake, sometimes known as a draft stopper, is a long stuffed fabric tube (usually filled with sand, rice, or other heavy materials) that is placed at the base of a door or window to prevent drafts from entering a room. It is a simple and inexpensive way to save energy and improve the comfort of a living space.

Question – Why should I use door snake?

Answer – As a draft stopper, it is a simple and inexpensive way to save energy and improve the comfort of a living space by blocking draught from under a door. 

Question – Are door snakes effective at blocking drafts?

Answer – Yes and no.  

Yes – when they are in place.  

No – when the door has been opened then closed and there is no one inside who is inclined to keep putting the door snake back into place.   If it is a heavy door snake, it may be quite difficult to push the door open when the door snake is in place. 

Question –  Why you should NOT use a door snake?

Answer – There are a few potential negative issues with using door snakes or draft stoppers at the bottom of a door:

1. Mobility: Door snakes can make it difficult to move the door, especially if they are long or heavy. This can be especially problematic if the door is used frequently or if the person using it has limited mobility.

2. Cleaning: Door snakes can accumulate dust, pet hair, and other debris over time, especially if they are left in place for an extended period. This can make them difficult to clean and create an unpleasant odor.

3. Moisture: If the door snake gets wet, it could develop mold or mildew, which can be difficult to remove and can create health problems for those with allergies or respiratory issues.

4. Insects or rodents: Door snakes can provide a cosy hiding place for insects or rodents looking for a warm place to live. This can create a pest problem in your home.   If the door snake is made of rice, they can become a delicious snack for a whole family of rodents.

5. Anything loose on the floor can become a trip hazard for the elderly.  

Ok – so they are quick, cheap and sometimes effective but can be problematic as well. 

So what would you use instead?? 

Consider the Raven RP1 – Fluffy Roller 

⇒ What is a Raven RP1 – Fluffy Roller?

The Raven RP1 is a fluffy roller that is easily secured to the back of a door.  It is a draught excluder – in that it stops draughts from entering your home via your door.  They come in grey and are made from a soft quashy material that is unattractive to rodents.  

⇒ Why should I use an RP1 – Fluffy Roller?

The Raven RP1 avoids the trip hazard that is a door snake.  As it is secured to the back of the door, the “fluffy roller” moves with the door as it is opened and closed.  Made from polyester it is not appealing as a snack for rodents and will dry out if it gets wet. 

⇒ Are Raven RP1 effective at blocking drafts?

Yes!  They can cover a gap of up to 19mm and can be cut down from their normal width of 915mm to 800mm without interfering with the mechanism. 

⇒ How do I install a Raven RP1?

Click here to see the video on how to install a Raven RP1 fluffy Roller.

⇒ Why should I consider alternatives to using a door snake for draught proofing my home?  

There are many different types of draught excluders:  automatic drop down excluders, sweep seals, brush seals and tread plates, as well as the fluffy roller.  If you are not sure which is the right draught excluder check out www.ecoMasterStore.com.au for PDF guides on each type of draught excluder. 

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What’s Next?

We hope this article has helped you learn how to use simple ways to save on your utility bill. This in turn will help you on your energy and thermal efficiency retrofit journey to make your home more comfortable all year round, and reduce your costs and carbon emissions.  

Next, explore An Energy Efficient Door is a Beautiful Door

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