What Is the Best Window Draft Blocker as the Weather Cools Off?

Think back to last winter in your Broken Arrow home. Can you remember areas in your home that had uncomfortably cool drafts? Do any of your windows whistle, howl, or rattle on windy days? Those noisy and drafty windows are telling you something. Those windows are making your home less comfortable and increasing your energy costs.

Losing heating dollars and putting up with drafty spots in your home is probably unacceptable now that you know the source of those problems. Keep reading and you'll find out how a window draft blocker can be your solution to these comfort and efficiency problems just in time for cooler weather.

Understanding Window Draft Blockers

Window draft blockers (also called window draft stoppers) are literally many different devices, features, coverings, and treatments for windows that do exactly what their name implies. They block drafts. If you have drafty windows, discovering draft blockers is a big deal! Consider which draft blockers will work well in your home.

Window Draft Blockers for Your Home

Window draft blockers are available as draperies, solar shades and blinds, caulking, and many more materials and devices. What follows are some popular choices:

• Door sweeps and snakes. Door sweeps use some type of material, such as foam, on both sides of the door. Door snakes are used on one side of the door.

• Removable caulk. Removable caulk is a great solution to stopping air leaks around windows.

• Permanent caulk. Permanent caulk is used to seal cracks at the juncture of window frames and exterior walls. Use a water-resistant caulk that can take paint.

• Thermal drapes. Thermal drapes use multiple layers and thickness to block drafts and also to block light.

• Weatherstripping. V-strips work great for sealing long gaps in window sills and between doors and door jams. Do you have an attic hatch or door? Stop drafts and air leaks using foam tape.

Could a plan to install a window draft blocker at each drafty window and door make a difference for the better in your Broken Arrow area home? Contact the HVAC and indoor-air quality pros at Air Assurance to find out.

Keep the Warm Air In and the Cold Air Out

As the weather gets colder, it becomes increasingly important to learn how to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. Not only will this improve the overall comfort of your home, it will also help control your monthly energy bills. Here are a few easy draft-prevention techniques for you to follow:

Check Your Home for Drafts

Before you take care of any draft problems around your home, the first thing you must obviously do is locate them. This can be done by running your hand around the edges of doors, windows, electrical outlets, etc. Also, listen for any whistling or whooshing sounds when the wind is blowing outside. If you need help, you can hire a professional technician to perform a blower-door test to identify any issues.

Seal Air Leaks Around the House

The next step is to seal any air leaks that you find around your home. Depending on the size and location of the leak, you'll need to choose between weather stripping, spray foam, and caulking to fix the problem areas. Keep in mind that the areas mentioned above, especially around the edges of your doors and windows, are the most common spots.

Check Air Ducts for Any Damage

After years of use, your ducts may show signs of damage such as holes, tears, and damaged joints. Smaller tears and holes can be effectively sealed by mastic sealant, while larger problems (more than 1/4") should be sealed up with duct tape.

Add Insulation Where It's Needed

If any rooms don't have enough insulation, then it's a lot harder to keep your home warm, because the heat will quickly leak out. Adding insulation isn't difficult, but a qualified technician can help you if you need assistance.

Learning how to keep the warm air in and the cold air out during the winter season will help you improve your household's overall comfort and reduce your energy bills. For more expert advice on draft prevention or any other HVAC-related topic, the technicians at Air Assurance can assist you. We've been servicing the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding area since 1985.