If you have a drafty house, you’re not alone. Many U.S. houses, particularly older ones, have drafty hallways and rooms. While many homeowners have accepted the problem as part of their everyday life, you shouldn’t and don’t have to. Follow the tips below to fix your drafty house permanently.
Seal Your Doors and Windows
Over time, the materials around your doors and windows, such as wood and caulk, wear down and create gaps. These gaps let in cold outside air, creating a drafty house. Replace the caulk and weatherstripping around drafty windows and doors every few years.
Upgrade Your Windows
Older building materials were less efficient at retaining indoor heat. Therefore, outdated windows may contribute to the drafts in your home. You can upgrade your windows by investing in two- or three-paned windows.
Hang Heavy Window Treatments
Replacing lightweight curtains with thicker, insulating curtains will help stop warm indoor air from escaping. Some of the treatments you could use for insulation include heavy drapes, layered curtains, Roman shades, or honeycomb shades.
Make or Buy Draft Stoppers
Cold air can get into your home through even small cracks under your doors. Door draft stoppers fit along the bottoms of doors to prevent air from escaping through tiny cracks. You can buy them or make them on your own.
Insulate Your Attic and Basement
Hot air rises, so every opening in your attic allows heated air to move out of your house. Over time, the insulation in your attic can wear down. Adding insulation to the attic and the end joints in your basement will help you keep more heat indoors.
Schedule an Energy Assessment
During an energy assessment of your home, a technician will carry out tests like the blower-door test to determine where heat loss is occurring. The technician can then make suitable recommendations for insulation and air sealing.
Fixing a drafty house will not only enhance your comfort but also help you save on heating bills. Contact Ace Hardware Home Services if you need home-comfort and energy-efficient improvements in the Dayton area.
