Draught Proofer

What does a draught proofer do?

As a draught proofer, you will be responsible for ensuring that buildings are secure from heat or energy loss. This includes working in new buildings, or locating issues in older buildings and fixing them.

The role of a draught proofer involves the following duties: 

• Detecting and tracking down where air is leaking from in a building, then fixing the problem with draught proofing
• Recommending and installing the best products to fix any leaks
• Talking to the main contractor and other tradespeople on site
• Covering an array of locations and materials including windows, external doors, floorboards, skirting boards, and internal doors
• Helping clients by cutting heating and lighting bills
• Helping the environment by reducing the amount of energy used
• Working in client’s homes and businesses.

How to become a draught proofer

There are no specific qualifications required to become a draught proofer, however you could do a college course or apprenticeship that could help you progress in this career. 

You should explore these routes to find out which is the right one for you. Although some of these options have certain qualification requirements, many employers are more interested in people who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and can follow instructions.

You may need a Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card to work on a construction site.

College

You don’t necessarily need specific qualifications to become a draught proofer, however having a Level 2 NVQ Certificate in Insulation and Building Treatments – Draught Proofing may give you an advantage.

• Equivalent entry requirements explained
• Find a course near you
• Funding advice

Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship with a construction company is a good way into the industry and may help you on your journey to becoming a draught proofer. 

You could complete an intermediate apprenticeship as a bricklayer, carpenter or joiner, for example, to help you gain the skills needed to become a draught proofer.

You’ll need 2-3 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent to do an intermediate apprentice.

Apprenticeships are open to anyone over the age of 16. As an apprentice, you will be fully employed by your company and expected to work a minimum of 30 hours a week. Your time will be split between on-the-job experience and a college or training provider.

• Guide to apprenticeships

Work

If you have some basic experience, you could apply directly to a construction company to gain onsite experience as a draught proofer. You might start out as an assistant to a more experienced draught proofer and progress as your abilities improve.

Work experience

Work experience is essential to gaining employment within the construction industry. You could gain this at school, or by working weekends and holidays with a company or relative who works as a draught proofer. Potential employers will always be pleased to see work experience listed on your CV.

• Find out more about work experience

Skills 

Additional skills which may benefit anyone considering a job as a draught proofer include: 

• Problem solving skills
• Customer service skills
• Good at working with your hands.

How much could you earn as a draught proofer?

The expected salary for a draught proofer varies as you become more experienced.

• Newly trained draught proofers can earn £20,000
• Trained draught proofers with experience can earn up to £48,000*
• Self-employed draught proofers set their own pay rates.

Salaries depend on location, employer, level of responsibility, any overtime you may do, and whether you have completed and industry recognised training route.