As winter approaches, it’s not uncommon to experience a draft in the house. A draft can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, leading to higher energy bills and decreased indoor air quality. There are a variety of reasons why drafts occur, but one of the most common causes is leaky windows and doors. In this article, we will discuss the causes of a draft in the house, how leaky windows and doors contribute to the problem, and what solutions are available to help you deal with this issue.
Causes of a draft in the house
A draft occurs when there is a flow of air through a building, typically from a colder to a warmer area. There are several reasons why drafts may occur, including:
- Poor insulation: If your home is not properly insulated, warm air can escape through gaps and cracks, leading to a draft
- Inadequate ventilation: When a building is tightly sealed, it can result in stagnant air, leading to decreased indoor air quality. This can cause a draft as air tries to circulate
- Leaky windows and doors: Leaks around windows and doors are a common cause of drafts, as cold air can easily seep through the gaps
Drafts through doors and windows
Leaky windows and doors are a significant contributor to drafts in the house. Over time, windows and doors can develop gaps and cracks that allow air to pass through. This can occur due to a variety of reasons, including:
- Age: As windows and doors age, the materials can degrade and become less effective at sealing out drafts.Poor installation: If windows and doors were not installed correctly, there may be gaps between the frame and the surrounding wall.
- Movement: As a house settles over time, it can cause windows and doors to shift, creating gaps.
- Warping: Moisture and temperature changes can cause wood frames to warp, leading to gaps and cracks.
Solutions for dealing with a draft
Fortunately, there are several solutions available to help you deal with a draft caused by leaky windows and doors. Here are some of the most effective options:
- Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping is a material that can be applied to windows and doors to seal out drafts. It comes in a variety of materials, including foam, felt, and vinyl.
- Caulking: Caulk is a sealant that can be applied around the frame of windows and doors to fill in gaps and cracks
- Replacement: If your windows and doors are old and no longer effective at sealing out drafts, it may be time to replace them with newer, more energy-efficient models of windows and doors
- Insulation: Adding insulation to your home can help to prevent drafts and improve overall energy efficiency
- Blinds and curtains: Adding blinds or curtains to your windows can help to trap warm air inside, preventing drafts
In addition to weatherstripping and caulking, replacing your leaky doors and windows with energy-efficient models is one of the most effective ways to seal out drafts and improve your home’s energy efficiency. While this may require an investment upfront, it is a long-term solution that can save you money on energy bills for many years to come.
At Homeefe, we offer a wide selection of energy-efficient doors and windows that can help to keep your home comfortable all year round. Our products are designed to seal out drafts and improve energy efficiency, saving you money on heating and cooling costs. From double-glazed windows to insulated steel doors, we have everything you need to create a more energy-efficient home.
