Say Goodbye to Drafty Spaces

Are unexpected chills giving you chills of your own and skyrocketing your energy bills? Yes, drafty spaces are the uninvited guests in many an otherwise cozy home, but don’t worry because it’s surprisingly easy to give them the boot. Here’s how to turn your home from “Winterfell” into “Always-warm-ton” without resorting to wearing three pairs of socks and camping by the heater.

1. New Windows: Your Clear Path to Warmth

Your home window situation is usually a good place to start when it comes to banishing drafts. Old, rickety windows are often the biggest culprits in the draft drama. If your windows are so old they belong in a museum, consider upgrading to double or even triple-glazed ones from Fredericksburg Window. Not only will new windows keep the cold out, they’ll also reduce noise pollution. It’s like putting a silencer on that annoying outside world. And while the upfront cost might make you wince, the energy savings and increased home comfort are well worth the investment.

2. Door Draft Stoppers: The Simple Solution

Moving on to doors—another major escape route for your precious heated air. If you’re not ready to replace an entire door, a draft stopper can be a quick and budget-friendly fix. You can buy them or, if you’re feeling crafty, make your own with some fabric and stuffing. It’s like a sleepover for your door, and everyone’s invited (except the cold).

3. Weatherstripping: Seal the Deal

Weatherstripping might sound like something meteorologists do, but it’s actually a handy way to seal gaps in windows and doors. This flexible material can be applied to stop drafts and is as easy to install as putting a Band-Aid on a boo-boo. Roll it out, stick it on, and say goodbye to those sneaky air leaks.

4. Insulation: Don’t Forget the Attic

If your home is drafty, there’s a good chance your attic is part of the problem. Poor insulation in the attic is like having a hat with holes in it—the heat just keeps escaping. Adding more insulation up there can help keep the heat where you want it – inside, cozying up the place.

5. Curtains: More Than Just Decor

Thick, heavy curtains aren’t just great for dramatic exits—they’re also fantastic insulators. Invest in some thermal curtains to add a layer of insulation around your windows. It’s like giving your windows a warm hug, and who doesn’t like hugs?

6. Mind the Gaps: Caulking is Your Friend

Grab a caulking gun and get to work on any cracks and gaps you find around your window frames or door edges. It’s a simple task that can be strangely satisfying—like squeezing a stress ball but with long-lasting, draft-busting benefits.

7. Fireplace Flue: Stop the Chimney Tax

If you have a fireplace that’s not in use, make sure the flue is sealed up when it’s not in use. Otherwise, it’s just an open invitation for cold air to swoop down your chimney and crash your cozy indoor party. Use a chimney balloon or a similar device to block the passage when the fireplace is just a decorative feature.

8. Rug It Up: Insulate from the Floor Up

Cold floors are not only uncomfortable but they can also make a room feel colder than it is. Throw down some rugs or carpets to add extra insulation underfoot. It’s an instant makeover for the room and your toes will thank you.

9. Vent Covers: Because Every Little Bit Helps

Got vents that are letting in cold air? Magnetic vent covers can be a quick fix to stop drafts from unused vents. They’re like little “Do Not Enter” signs for unwanted breezes.

10. Reflective Foil Behind Radiators: Maximize Your Heat

Placing reflective foil behind radiators, especially those on external walls, can prevent heat from escaping through the walls by reflecting it back into the room. It’s a simple, inexpensive method that can significantly increase the efficiency of your existing heating system.

11. Upgrade to Smart Thermostats: Heat Smarter Not Harder

Smart thermostats allow you to control the heating in your home with precision. You can set them to lower the temperature when you’re not home and heat up just before you return, ensuring you’re only using energy when necessary. Plus, you can adjust the settings from your smartphone—a modern twist to traditional home heating.

12. Use Draft Excluders for Sliding Doors: Slide Away the Chill

Sliding doors can be a major source of drafts in the home. Using draft excluders specifically designed for sliding mechanisms can help seal the gaps and keep the warmth where it should be—inside your living space.

Reclaim the cozy!