It is COLD outside! These are the times when you can definitely tell if there are cold drafts sneaking into your house. Not only does that make your home cooler, it’s working up your heat bill!
Here are some quick tips to ensure that your windows and doors are well sealed:
1. Use Weather-stripping
Weather-strips are an inexpensive way to help seal drafty doors and windows.
2. Install New Sweeps
Replacing old door sweeps with new ones can make a world of a difference.
To ensure a good fit, close the door, measure the length of the door, and cut the size you need. There are a few different kinds of sweeps (like heavy duty, drip-cap and brush) – asking an expert at your local hardware store which one is right for you will help ensure you get the best bang for your buck.
3. Use Foam Tape
Highly-sticky foam tape is a great weather-proofing alternative to doors that may be slightly warped and don’t have a true and snug fit. Simply cut to size and secure in the areas with a draft.
4. Apply Rigid Foam Insulation And Foil Stripping
Insulate windows with sash weights.
5. Apply Window Film
It looks like saran wrap and when put in place and heated with a hair-dryer, shrinks and seals drafty windows. Pro tip: recruit a friend to help hang on larger windows, it’s much easier that way!
6. Hang Insulated Curtains
Thermal curtains are a great way to retain heat in your home during the winter. The only drawback is to be most effective, they need to be closed, which reduces the beloved sunlight.
7. Use A Door Snake
If you have a drafty window or door, these little snakes are a must-have in your home. Placed at the bottom of the door or window, these weighted fabric tubes help block out the unwanted chill.
Get the DIY instructions here. Not crafty? Simply roll up a towel and place on the floor. It’s better than nothing.
8. Re-Caulk Your Windows & Doors
Over time, the caulking on windows degrades and may wear or peel away. Each fall, buy a tube or two of exterior caulking and make your rounds on outside of your home. Simply re-caulk old spots to help seal out drafts.
