How to Reduce Drafts in Your Home

Unwanted drafts increase energy bills and reduce comfort. Tackling these air leaks leads to a warmer living space and better energy efficiency. Here are several practical strategies that help reduce drafts and improve indoor comfort.

Draft-Free Living Starts Here

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Cold Draft Symptoms

Cold drafts in a home can lead to several noticeable symptoms, both physical and environmental. Common physical symptoms include chills, increased sensitivity to cold, dry skin, and respiratory irritation such as sneezing, coughing, or congestion.

Environmentally, drafts often cause uneven temperatures between rooms, cold spots near windows or doors, and higher energy bills due to increased heating demands. These symptoms may indicate poor insulation, gaps in windows or doors, or leaks in ductwork.

Inspect Doors and Windows

Drafts frequently originate around door and window frames. Check for gaps or cracks where air might sneak through. Weather-stripping provides a quick fix. Foam tape, door sweeps, and silicone sealant help close these gaps and block cold air from seeping inside.

Use Heavy Curtains or Thermal Drapes

Standard blinds or thin curtains do little to prevent cold air from entering. Installing thermal or insulated curtains provides an added barrier, especially during colder months. Keep them closed at night to trap heat inside and open during the day to let sunlight naturally warm rooms.

Seal Gaps in the Attic and Basement

Air escapes through less obvious places, including attics and basements. Use expanding foam to seal gaps around plumbing, electrical wiring, and vents. Insulate the attic hatch and check for exposed rafters or unsealed soffits that may be letting cold air in.

Apply Caulk Around Exterior Penetrations

Exterior walls have multiple entry points for vents, pipes, and cables. Over time, caulk degrades and leaves gaps. Scrape away old caulk and apply a fresh bead to block cold air entry points. Choose a weather-resistant sealant for long-lasting protection.

Install Outlet and Switch Plate Insulators

Exterior walls often allow cold air through electrical outlets and switch plates. Foam gaskets are easy to install and reduce airflow from these unnoticed sources. Cover them with the plate again once the gasket is in place to maintain appearance and effectiveness.

Add a Storm Door

Installing a storm door adds an extra layer of insulation at entryways. It creates a buffer zone between indoor and outdoor air, which helps reduce drafts in your home. Some models also include screens for ventilation during warmer months.

Upgrade or Add Insulation

Poor insulation contributes to draft problems. Inspect the insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces. Adding additional layers of fiberglass, cellulose, or spray foam boosts overall efficiency and comfort.

Close Gaps Around Floorboards

In older homes, floorboards sometimes separate over time, allowing air to move between levels. Use wood filler or flexible caulk to seal cracks and gaps. Rugs or carpets also help minimize cold spots and make floors more comfortable underfoot.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Q: What’s the easiest way to detect where drafts are coming from?

A: Light a stick of incense or a candle and move it slowly around windows, doors, and baseboards. Watch for smoke movement to identify air leaks.

Q: How much energy is typically saved after reducing drafts?

A: Homeowners who seal air leaks and improve insulation report energy savings of up to 20%, depending on the severity of the original drafts.