Keep Your Home Warm This Winter: Repair Doors and Windows Today

 

Winter is Coming—Is Your Home Ready? Fix Draughty Doors and Windows Now!

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The winter chill is creeping in, and we all know how important it is to keep our homes warm and cozy when the temperature drops. But here's the thing: you could be paying for heat that’s slipping right out of your home without you even knowing it. Draughty doors and windows are often the culprit, letting cold air in and precious warmth escape. Thankfully, you don’t need to break the bank to fix this. A few simple DIY repairs can make a huge difference - and keep your home toasty all winter long!

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to tackle the most common draughty door and window issues. Don’t worry, these are quick and easy fixes that anyone can handle, no experience necessary! Whether you're dealing with a stubborn draught or a worn-out seal, we’ve got solutions that’ll make sure your home stays warm and energy-efficient this season. Let’s dive in!

Why Draughty Doors and Windows Are a Big Deal

Before we get into how to fix it, let’s talk about why sealing those draughts is so important. When warm air escapes and cold air sneaks in, your heating system has to work overtime to keep up. That means higher energy bills and a colder home. But it's not just about comfort—it's about saving money and making your space more energy-efficient. Sealing gaps around doors and windows is one of the easiest (and most affordable) ways to reduce your energy consumption and keep your home feeling warm all winter long.

Step 1: Check for Draughts

The first thing you need to do is check where the draughts are coming from. You don’t need fancy tools for this—just your hands (and maybe a candle or incense stick).

• Windows: Feel around the edges of the window frame. If you can feel cold air coming through, that means there’s a gap that needs sealing.
• Doors: Check the bottom of the door and around the frame. If there’s a visible gap or you can feel air moving, it’s time to make a fix.

If you're having trouble finding the draughts, grab a candle or incense stick, and hold it near the edges of the door or window. If the smoke wavers or blows toward the inside, you’ve found a leak!

Step 2: Fixing Draughty Windows

Windows are a major culprit when it comes to letting in cold air, especially older ones. But there are a few simple fixes that can make a big difference:

1. Replace or Add Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping is an easy, inexpensive way to seal the edges of your windows and stop drafts in their tracks. Over time, weatherstripping can wear out, crack, or shrink, so replacing it is a great way to improve your home's insulation.

To replace the weatherstripping:

• Remove the old, damaged stripping.
• Measure the length of the window frame to cut the new weatherstripping to size.
• Apply the new strip along the edges of the window frame, making sure it’s sealed tightly.

Pro Tip: You can find self-adhesive weatherstripping that’s super easy to install without any tools!

2. Caulk Around the Edges

If you notice any gaps or cracks around your windows, caulking is the next step. Old caulk can crack and shrink over time, leaving spaces where cold air can seep in.

Here’s how to freshen up the caulk:

• Remove the old, cracked caulk using a utility knife or scraper.
• Clean the area around the window frame to make sure the new caulk sticks.
• Apply a smooth bead of silicone caulk around the edges of the window frame and smooth it with your finger or a caulk tool.

This simple step can instantly stop air leaks and keep your home warmer.

3. Window Insulation Film

If you live in a particularly cold area, window insulation film is a great option. It’s a thin plastic film that you apply to the interior of your windows to create an extra layer of insulation. Once applied, you can shrink the film with a hairdryer, creating a tight seal that reduces draughts and helps trap heat inside.

Window insulation film is inexpensive and easy to install. Plus, it’s removable, so when the weather warms up, you can take it down without any hassle.

Step 3: Sealing Draughty Doors

Doors are another major source of heat loss, but there are simple solutions to fix those pesky drafts:

1. Install a Door Sweep

If you’ve got a gap at the bottom of your door, a door sweep can block that cold air from sneaking in. These are inexpensive, easy to install, and come in a variety of materials, like rubber, vinyl, or even bristles.

To install a door sweep:

• Measure the width of the door.
• Attach the sweep to the bottom of the door using screws or adhesive (depending on the model).
• Adjust the sweep so it gently touches the floor to create a tight seal.

2. Replace or Add Weatherstripping

Just like windows, doors need weatherstripping too. If your door has a worn-out seal, replace it with a fresh strip of weatherstripping. You can find adhesive options at most hardware stores, and installing them is a breeze.

To add or replace weatherstripping:

• Clean the doorframe.
• Measure and cut the new stripping to fit the edges of the door.
• Stick or screw the weatherstripping into place for a secure, tight seal.

3. Check the Door Frame

Sometimes, the problem is with the door frame itself. If the frame is cracked or warped, it may not seal properly, even with weatherstripping in place. In this case, you might need to repair or replace the frame, which is a bigger job - but one that can make a significant impact on your home’s insulation.

Step 4: Additional Tips for a Warmer Home

Once you’ve taken care of your windows and doors, there are a few more tricks to keep your home warm all winter:

• Use Thick Curtains: Heavy, insulated curtains can help block out the cold and keep your rooms warmer. Close them at night to add an extra layer of insulation.
• Add Rugs to Cold Floors: If you’ve got hardwood or tile floors, they can get pretty chilly. Adding a rug in high-traffic areas can help warm things up underfoot.
• Close Off Unused Rooms: If you’ve got rooms you’re not using, keep the doors shut to keep the heat where you need it most.

Don't Wait – Start Today!

Winter is fast approaching, so don’t wait until the cold sets in to make your repairs. Tackling these door and window fixes now will ensure your home stays warm and energy-efficient, without breaking the bank. Plus, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy, comfortable home all season long.

Ready to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long? 

Don't let draughts sneak in and drive up your energy bills! At BlueWood Handyman, we're here to help you seal those gaps and make sure your doors and windows are in top shape. Whether it's replacing weatherstripping, caulking, or installing door sweeps, our expert team is ready to tackle the job and keep your home warm this winter. Schedule your repair today, and let us make your home as cozy as can be this season!

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