Why Your Home Feels Drafty (And How To Fix It)

Is there anything worse than settling onto the couch for a cozy night in, only to be interrupted by a mysterious, chilly breeze? You crank up the heat, but the cold air persists, making your comfortable space feel less than inviting. If this sounds familiar, you’re likely wondering why your home feels drafty and how you canfix it.

So, what’s causing that unwelcome chill? Several culprits could be turning your sanctuary into a slightly breezy and inefficient money pit. Let’s identify the sources and find some solutions.

Check Your Doors and Windows

The most obvious suspects for drafts are your doors and windows. Over time, the seals around them can wear down, creating small gaps that let outside air sneak in. A warped door or an old window frame can also be the source. Many people don’t realize that their windows are to blame for their drafty home. You can perform a simple check by holding a lit incense stick near the edges of your windows and doors. If the smoke wavers, you’ve found a leak.

Inspect Your Electrical Outlets

Here’s a sneaky one: electrical outlets and switch plates on exterior walls can be sources of drafts. These outlets often have small gaps around them that lead directly to the uninsulated space inside your walls. While each opening is tiny, the cumulative effect of several drafty outlets can make a room feel noticeably colder. Luckily, this is an easy and inexpensive fix with foam gaskets designed to fit behind the cover plates.

Look Up at Your Attic and Fireplace

Warm air rises, and if your attic isn’t properly sealed and insulated, that expensive heated air is escaping right through your ceiling. Gaps around light fixtures, attic hatches, and plumbing vents are common exit points. Similarly, a fireplace damper that doesn’t close tightly acts like an open window, letting cold air pour down the chimney and into your living room. Always ensure your damper is closed when the fireplace isn’t in use.

Seal Gaps in Your Foundation

Your home’s foundation is another area where drafts can originate. Over time, small cracks can develop in the concrete, or gaps can appear where plumbing pipes and utility lines enter your home. Check your basement or crawl space for any visible openings. Sealing these gaps is crucial to stop cold air at its source and prevent moisture problems.

How To Banish the Drafts for Good

Now that you understand why your home may feel drafty, you can take the necessary steps to fix it. Check these common problem areas so you can pinpoint the sources of drafts and take action!