Seal Drafty Windows And Doors
Ah, the joys of homeownership – where every chilly gust of wind that seeps through your windows and doors serves as a not-so-gentle reminder that your humble abode is due for a bit of TLC. If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent many a winter evening huddled under a blanket, sipping on a steaming mug of hot cocoa, and muttering a few choice words about the draftiness of your humble abode.
But fear not, my fellow Aberdeen residents! Today, I’m here to share with you a comprehensive guide on how to seal those pesky drafty windows and doors, so you can bid farewell to the chill and hello to a cozy, energy-efficient home.
Understanding the Culprits of Drafts
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of sealing up your windows and doors, let’s take a moment to understand the common culprits behind those unwelcome drafts. According to the experts at This Old House, a mere 1/8-inch gap around the perimeter of a door can allow as much air to leak in as a small window that’s halfway open. And the same goes for those old, wooden windows with chunks missing or loose panes – they’re practically inviting the winter winds to come on in and make themselves at home.
But the real kicker? It’s not just the windows and doors themselves that are the culprits. Nope, the gaps and cracks in the very frames and trims can also be responsible for those pesky drafts. As one intrepid Redditor discovered, they could feel air coming through the cracks and holes in the actual wood trim around the windows, as well as around the window itself. Yikes, talk about a multi-pronged attack on our cozy sanctuary!
Tackling the Drafts: Step-by-Step Sealing Solutions
Alright, now that we’ve identified the main suspects, let’s dive into the surefire methods for sealing up those drafty windows and doors. Get ready to become a DIY master in the art of weatherproofing your humble abode.
Locking Windows and Doors
The first line of defense against drafts? Locking your windows and doors. As the experts at This Old House explain, window locks pull the sashes together, effectively closing up the spaces where air can sneak in. And don’t forget about your doors – those pesky gaps around the perimeter can be sealed with the simple addition of weather stripping along the sides and top, and a new door sweep at the bottom.
Filling the Gaps
Now, for those troublesome cracks and holes in the window and door frames and trims, it’s time to break out the trusty gap filler. As the Redditor mentioned, a product like Backer Rod – a foam rope that comes in various sizes – can be the perfect solution for filling those larger gaps. Simply press it into the cracks and trim it with a pair of scissors. And for added protection, you can even apply a layer of removable caulk over the gap filler, just to make sure those drafts don’t stand a chance.
But what about those pesky smaller cracks and holes? Well, fear not, because the experts have got your back. According to This Old House, a temporary caulking sealant can be the perfect solution. You can find it in a tube, just like regular caulk, or even on a roll for easy application.
And if you’re looking for a more natural solution, why not try Mortite – a clay-like substance on a roll that you can simply press into those window and door gaps, sealing out the winter winds? The best part? In the summer, you can just peel it off and let the fresh air back in.
Sealing with Plastic Film
Now, if you’re not quite ready to replace your windows (trust me, I feel you on that one), there’s another nifty trick up our sleeves: window insulation kits. These handy little kits, available at your local hardware store or online, come complete with a plastic film that you can affix to the window jambs using double-sided tape. Once in place, just give it a quick blast with a hairdryer, and voila – an extra layer of insulation that’ll keep the cold air out and the warmth in.
And let’s not forget about the power of layering when it comes to keeping those drafts at bay. As the This Old House experts suggest, combining blinds, sheer curtains, and heavy drapes can provide just the right amount of protection for all weather conditions. Just remember to keep everything closed up tight when it’s chilly outside, and open up those blinds and drapes when the sun’s shining in to let nature’s warmth do its thing.
Bonus Tips for Sealing Success
Now, I know what you’re thinking – with all these different sealing solutions, how on earth do I know which one to choose? Fear not, my friends, because I’ve got a few bonus tips to help you achieve sealing success.
First and foremost, it’s important to assess the severity of the drafts in your home. Are we talking a gentle breeze, or a full-on winter gale? The experts at This Old House recommend using a handheld airflow meter to pinpoint the areas with the most severe drafts, so you can focus your efforts where they’re needed most.
And speaking of focus, another key tip is to prioritize your problem areas. As the Redditor pointed out, it’s important to remember that building codes require at least one functioning window in each room, especially in basements and sleeping areas. So, while you may be tempted to go all-out and seal every nook and cranny, it’s best to start with the most problematic areas and work your way from there.
Finally, don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your sealing solutions. As the This Old House experts suggest, a trusty old quilt can make for an effective (and cozy) door draft stopper in a pinch. And don’t be afraid to experiment with a combination of techniques – after all, the more layers of protection, the better.
Keeping Your Home Cozy and Energy-Efficient
By now, I’m sure you’re feeling like a true weatherproofing warrior, armed with a arsenal of sealing solutions that’ll have your drafty windows and doors quaking in their frames. But the benefits of these DIY fixes go far beyond just keeping the chill at bay.
You see, by sealing up those pesky air leaks, you’ll not only be creating a more comfortable living environment, but you’ll also be doing your part to keep your energy bills in check. According to the experts at This Old House, up to 30% of a home’s heating and cooling energy can be lost through drafty windows and doors. So, by taking the time to properly seal and weatherproof your humble abode, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy, energy-efficient home all year round.
And let’s not forget the environmental benefits of this little DIY project. By reducing your reliance on energy-guzzling heating and cooling systems, you’ll be doing your part to lower your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. It’s a win-win-win, if you ask me!
So, what are you waiting for, my fellow Aberdeen residents? Grab your caulk gun, your Backer Rod, and your trusty hairdryer, and let’s get to work on sealing up those drafty windows and doors. Your wallet, your comfort, and the planet will thank you. And who knows, maybe you’ll even discover a newfound love for DIY home improvements in the process. After all, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a job well done, especially when it means you get to cozy up in your warm, draft-free home all winter long.
And if you need any additional assistance or resources, be sure to check out the expert team at ABC Home, your go-to building and renovation company in Aberdeen, UK. They’ve got all the tools, tips, and tricks you’ll need to make your home a cozy, energy-efficient oasis.
