Drafty windows and doors are common culprits for energy loss, causing higher utility bills and an uncomfortable living environment. Fortunately, identifying and fixing these drafts is easier than you might think. Use these weatherproofing techniques to seal up gaps and boost your home’s energy efficiency.
1. Inspect for Drafts
• Recommended Frequency: Seasonally or if you notice fluctuating temperatures near windows and doors.
• Why It Matters: Identifying where drafts are coming from helps you focus your efforts and prevent wasting energy.
• How to Do It: Hold a lit candle or incense stick near the edges of windows and doors. If the flame flickers or the smoke moves, you have a draft.
2. Check for Visible Gaps
• Recommended Frequency: Annually.
• Why It Matters: Small gaps can lead to significant energy loss if not addressed.
• How to Do It: Inspect the seals and weatherstripping around windows and doors. Look for any gaps, cracks, or worn-out seals that may need replacing.
3. Replace or Add Weatherstripping
• Recommended Frequency: Every few years or when you notice wear.
• Why It Matters: Weatherstripping is an affordable and effective way to prevent drafts and improve insulation.
• How to Do It: Remove old weatherstripping and clean the surface. Apply new adhesive-backed weatherstripping around the perimeter of doors and windows, ensuring it creates a tight seal when closed.
4. Install Door Sweeps or Bottom Seals
• Recommended Frequency: As needed.
• Why It Matters: Gaps at the bottom of doors are a major source of drafts.
• How to Do It: Attach a door sweep (a flexible piece of material) or bottom seal to the door’s lower edge to block drafts. This will help seal off gaps and keep warm air inside.
5. Use Caulk to Seal Window and Door Gaps
• Recommended Frequency: Every 1–2 years.
• Why It Matters: Caulking fills small gaps that weatherstripping can’t reach, providing extra insulation.
• How to Do It: Apply silicone or acrylic latex caulk around window and door frames where gaps exist. Smooth with a putty knife for a neat, effective seal.
6. Install Window Insulation Film
• Recommended Frequency: Once a year in colder months.
• Why It Matters: Insulation film helps reduce heat loss through windows, especially in older homes with single-pane windows.
• How to Do It: Apply a clear, adhesive film over the window and use a hairdryer to shrink it tightly. This creates an insulating layer of air that reduces drafts.
7. Consider Replacing Old Windows or Doors
• Recommended Frequency: As needed.
• Why It Matters: Older windows and doors, especially single-pane models, are much more likely to let in drafts.
• How to Do It: If drafts persist despite weatherproofing, it may be time to invest in energy-efficient, double-pane windows or insulated doors.
The Bottom Line: Seal Drafts for Comfort & Savings
Addressing drafty windows and doors can significantly improve your home’s comfort and reduce heating and cooling costs. With these simple weatherproofing techniques, you can keep the elements out and enjoy a more energy-efficient home year-round!
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