Simple Ways To Fix A Drafty House

Updated: 9/18/2024

Drafty houses can make your home uncomfortable and increase your energy bills. Here are some easy ways to fix those drafts and keep your home cozy all year round.

1. Identify Draft Sources

The first step in fixing a drafty house is finding where the drafts are coming from. Common culprits include windows, doors, and gaps in walls or floors. On a windy day, walk around your home with a lit candle or incense stick. If the flame flickers or smoke moves, you’ve found a draft source. Improving your home’s energy efficiency starts with this simple step.

Once you’ve identified the draft sources, you can tackle them one by one. Even small gaps can let in a lot of cold air, so don’t overlook any potential problem areas. Pay special attention to areas where different materials meet, such as where the foundation meets the walls or where pipes and wires enter the house. These junctions often develop gaps over time.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are often the biggest culprits when it comes to drafts. Weatherstripping is an easy and effective way to seal these gaps. You can find weatherstripping materials at most hardware stores. For windows, apply the weatherstripping to the frame where the window meets it when closed. For doors, apply it around the entire frame.

Caulking is another great option for sealing small gaps around windows and door frames. Weatherproofing services can help if you’re not comfortable doing this yourself. Remember, caulk should be applied at temperatures above 45°F for proper curing. When applying caulk, make sure to clean the area thoroughly first and remove any old, cracked caulk. Apply the new caulk in a continuous bead, smoothing it with a wet finger or caulk-smoothing tool for a professional finish.

3. Use Door Sweeps and Draft Stoppers

For gaps at the bottom of doors, door sweeps are a simple solution. These attach to the bottom of the door and have a flexible seal that brushes against the floor, blocking drafts. Draft stoppers, also known as door snakes, are another option. These are fabric tubes filled with insulating material that you place at the base of the door.

Both of these solutions are easy to install and can make a big difference in keeping cold air out and warm air in. They’re especially useful for exterior doors, but can also help with drafts between rooms inside your house. For a more permanent solution, consider installing a door sweep that automatically drops down when the door is closed, providing a tight seal against the threshold.

4. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is crucial for energy efficiency. While adding insulation to walls might require professional help, you can often add insulation to your attic yourself. This can have a big impact on your home’s overall warmth and energy efficiency.

For targeted insulation, consider an expanding foam insulation that you can get at your local Sonoma County hardware store. This product is great for filling small gaps and cracks that might be letting in drafts. It’s easy to apply and can make a noticeable difference in problem areas. When insulating, don’t forget about less obvious areas like crawl spaces, basement walls, and around recessed lighting fixtures. These areas can be significant sources of heat loss if left uninsulated.

5. Install Window Treatments

Window treatments aren’t just for looks – they can also help insulate your home. Thermal curtains have an insulating layer that helps reduce heat transfer through windows. Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, trap air in their cells, creating an extra layer of insulation.

During cold days, open your curtains or blinds to let in sunlight and natural heat. At night, close them to add an extra layer of insulation. This simple habit can help keep your home warmer and reduce the strain on your heating system. For maximum efficiency, consider using a combination of window treatments. For example, you could use cellular shades for daytime insulation and add heavy thermal curtains for extra insulation at night.

6. Seal Ductwork

Your HVAC system’s ductwork can be a source of drafts if it’s not properly sealed. Leaky ducts can let warm air escape into unheated spaces like attics or crawl spaces. This not only creates drafts but also makes your heating system work harder, increasing your energy bills.

Regular maintenance of your HVAC system, including sealing ductwork, is crucial for maintaining good indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Professional duct sealing can improve your HVAC system’s efficiency by up to 20%, leading to significant energy savings over time.

7. Use Foam Sealants for Large Gaps

For larger gaps around pipes, vents, or in corners, expanding foam sealants can be very effective. These come in cans and expand to fill spaces after you spray them in. Be careful though – they can expand quite a lot, so start with a small amount.

Foam sealants are great for those hard-to-reach places where drafts might be sneaking in. They’re especially useful in basements and attics where there might be gaps around pipes or wires entering your home. When using foam sealants, wear protective gear including gloves and eye protection. Also, be sure to clean up any excess foam immediately, as it can be difficult to remove once it hardens.

8. Consider Energy-Efficient Upgrades

If you’ve tried all these methods and your home is still drafty, it might be time to consider some bigger upgrades. Energy-efficient air conditioning and heating systems can help maintain a comfortable temperature in your home more effectively.

Replacing old windows and doors with energy-efficient models can also make a big difference. While these upgrades require a larger initial investment, they can lead to significant energy savings over time. Replacing both your air conditioner and furnace at the same time can ensure optimal performance and compatibility. Energy-efficient windows can reduce heat loss by up to 50% compared to single-pane windows, while modern, well-sealed doors can dramatically reduce drafts and improve insulation.

Conclusion: Embrace a Draft-Free Home

Fixing a drafty house doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By following these simple steps, you can significantly improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Remember, every small improvement adds up to make a big difference in your energy bills and your home’s overall comfort.

If you’re unsure about any of these methods or need professional help, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you create a comfortable, energy-efficient home environment. Stay warm, save energy, and enjoy your draft-free home!