DIY Ways to Draft Proof Your Home
Some of our favorite DIY ways to draft proof your home happen to be oh-so simple. Draft kits, weatherstripping and insulation foam are powerful ways to eliminate drafts and save on energy bills. Here are tips on selecting the best draft stoppers, installing them with ease and saving on heating and cooling costs.
Kits. Foam. Seals.
These are small items that make a big difference when it comes to weather-proofing your house. Simple to install, they’ll save you money on your energy bill and keep you comfortable whether the sun is out in full force, or frigid winter winds are whooshing by.
Kits Keep It Simple
Draft kits are easy ways to seal your windows and doors. Everything you need is contained in each kit, saving you multiple trips to the store and avoiding the purchase of items you don’t need.
For windows, Ray Esh of Esh Hardware recommends M-D Polar Block Clear Window Indoor Insulation Kit. The kit consists of shrink film and double sided tape, and is a seasonal solution. You won’t be able to open the window while it’s applied, but it will add a potent layer of insulation.
Frost King Patio Door Insulation Kit
For patio doors we like Frost King Patio Door Insulation Kit, also sold at Esh Hardware. Similar to a window kit, the super-clear film sheet covers the window and casing, creating a lock keeping warm air inside.
Whether sealing a window or door, installation consists of these steps:
- Thoroughly clean the entire glass pane, as well as surrounding areas, including rails, trim, frame and casing
- Attach the film to window using double-sided tape
- Use a hair dryer on its highest setting to shrink the film, creating a super-tight barrier
Tip: The double-sided tape included in these kits is formulated for easy removal, and won’t damage paint or leave residue behind.
Photo Credit: Philippe 2009
Weatherstripping 101
Window and door seals are also an easy way to draft-proof your home. “They fill gaps and close drafts,” says Ray Esh, pointing out how these seals, made of foam, rubber, vinyl or silicone, are used to create durable, air-tight environments around doors and windows.
Specifically—seals can be applied along door or window stops, and along the tops and bottoms of window sashes.
Foam, in particular, is best used on windows and doors that are rarely opened. By contrast, rubber, vinyl or silicone are highly durable draft-blockers that are ideal for locations that see a lot of movement, such as between a front door and its jamb.
Before you buy weatherstripping, Esh explains, “You want to be mindful of its thickness and width, so it doesn’t keep doors from closing, or windows from latching.” At Esh, window seals by M-D Building Products range from extra small to extra large, with a specific range of widths marked on each package.
Basic but potent, weatherstrips are super-easy to install. No hardware or tools needed. Simply clean and dry the surface beforehand, then cut the strip to desired length and apply.
Tip: Here’s a simple way to check for drafts: Light a stick candle and walk along your windows and doors, watching for any incoming air to shift the direction of the flame.
