Staying warm indoors is a luxury many Wisconsinites take advantage of during the cooler months. But sometimes, cold air annoyingly sneaks in through windows, doors and other crevices in your home. In addition to making for an uncomfortable winter season, drafts can also result in higher energy bills.
Winterizing your home annually is a worthwhile task. Here are a few simple and effective ways to prevent a drafty house.
Tips Fix a Drafty House
Seal your windows
Windows are among the biggest culprits when it comes to allowing heat to escape, bringing a chill into your home. Thankfully, there are several easy remedies:
- The caulk that frames your windows wears down over time. Each year in the fall (i.e., before it gets too cold), apply a fresh layer of caulk around your window frames.
- Thin plastic film has the power to retain around 55% of heat in a room when adhered to glass. This inexpensive solution is easy to apply and remove.
- You can also place Styrofoam boards along the windowsills to block chilly air from seeping in.
- Make sure your windows are securely locked to pull the sashes together – especially since you will likely not be opening them.
Use a door draft stopper
Door draft stoppers, which create a sturdy barrier over door gaps, help absorb frigid air from the outside while helping retain heat inside. And if you are concerned about aesthetics, have no fear! They are barely noticeable. However, if you want to add a fun splash of color to your doorway, you can make your own with the fabric of your choice and some sand or polyester fiber stuffing. Here is a fun DIY door draft stopper craft you can try.
Hang thick curtains
Another way to help cold air from entering your home is to hang curtains made from thicker materials such as polyester or wool. In the winter, swap your lightweight shades for thermal and insulated curtains, which contain a strong vapor barrier coating. As a bonus, heavier drapes also reduce unwanted exterior noise. It is recommended to keep your curtains open during the daytime to let the heat from the sun enter your home and then close them at night.
Upgrade your windows and doors
If you live in an older home, it is possible your windows and doors are outdated. As homes age, materials naturally shrink and shift, creating rifts. They may also have worn out framing or sealing to keep warm air inside and cool air outside – or vice versa, depending on the season.
Drastic changes in temperature and humidity levels – something we are all too familiar with in Wisconsin – can cause common materials like wood and vinyl to expand and contract, thereby wearing down airtight seals over time. Although upgrading your windows and doors is certainly a larger investment than the above solutions, it can ultimately save lots of time and energy for years to come – not to mention provide peace of mind and add value to your home.
To learn more ways to keep your home protected and feel comfortable no matter the season, contact your local Rural Mutual agent.
