6 Easy Ways To Air Seal A Drafty Home

If you’ve been feeling a chill in your home even when the heat is on, you may consider checking your house for possible drafts. Air leaks can cause your energy bill to skyrocket, and filling the gaps can help save you money on these costs. It can also improve the comfort of your living space and reduce noise levels from outside. Read on as we discuss seven easy air-sealing solutions for a drafty home and keep the cold air out!

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#1 Update Your Insulation

If you have an older home, the insulation may be inadequate, or it has settled and is no longer doing its job. Investing in new insulation can help seal the walls and reduce energy loss by preventing any drafts from getting inside.

Although this might be a bit of work compared to the other air sealing options, you can rest assured that it will give you the most energy-efficient home product. If you have trouble identifying the areas where additional insulation is needed, you can consider investing in professional help at iFoam to get you started!

#2 Install Door And Window Seals

Cold air entering your house is from multiple leaks– big or small. These are usually found around doors and windows with cracks and holes you need to check. Make sure the seal between the frames is tight by using different seals available in the market. You can also:

invest in storm windows to give an extra layer of insulation
replace door sweeps to fill in the space at the bottom of your door
purchase an insulation kit which will further boost the level of insulation around these openings

#3 Put Foam Gaskets On Outlets And Switch Plates

Electric outlets and switches exist in numbers in your home; though it’s not commonly known, they can also be significant sources of air leaks. This may be fixed by using foam gaskets which you simply press into the back of the cover plate to keep air from coming in. You can also use these foam tape strips on recessed lighting fixtures in your walls or ceiling. These gaskets are inexpensive and easy to install, but they make a big difference in air sealing.

#4 Caulk Or Weatherstrip Around Gaps

The usual way to seal gaps or cracks in the house is by using either caulk or weatherstripping. Caulk is used to fill small crevices around openings visible from the outside. Weatherstripping, on the other hand, should be installed around movable components such as those found between sliding glass doors. It’s important to note that you’ll need a different type of weatherstripping for indoor pipes and ducts than you would use outdoors; make sure you get the right kind to ensure effective air sealing.

#5 Close Air Spaces Or Vents

If your house has a chimney, fireplace, attic, or basement, air sealing might be a handful. These spaces can be a significant contributor to drafting in your house. The first thing to make sure of is to have them checked if they are left open. Also, have the damper shut tight when not in use so cold air doesn’t sneak in. You can also use weatherstripping to seal gaps around your attic floor. And if you have a larger opening, consider using expanding foam insulation to fill the space and adequately reduce energy loss.

Finally, don’t forget about your crawl spaces! It would be best if you made sure there are no open vents and that it is sufficiently insulated to ensure your home stays warm and draft-free.

#6 Install Exhaust Fans

Effective ventilation systems can help you with your “drafty” problem by drawing in cooler outdoor air while pushing out the warmer indoor air. You can install these exhaust fans in the kitchen, bathroom, and other rooms with moisture buildup to help reduce condensation and keep your home comfortable.

Taking these steps can help protect your home from breezes and keep cold air out this winter. Keep in mind that even small changes are capable of making big differences in improving your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. If you have queries or need assistance with any of these air sealing projects, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for further guidance. With the proper preparations, you can stay warm and cozy all season long!