A drafty home can be quite uncomfortable, especially during the colder months. Not only can drafts make your living space chilly, but they can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system works harder to compensate for the heat loss. If you’re wondering why your house is drafty, this article will explore some common causes and provide solutions to help you address this issue. 

Understanding Drafts 

Before we delve into the reasons behind drafty homes, let’s define what a draft actually is. A draft refers to the movement of air through small gaps or openings in your home’s envelope, such as windows, doors, walls, or floors. These gaps allow cold air from outside to infiltrate your living space and warm air from inside to escape. 

Common Causes of Drafts 

Several factors can contribute to a drafty home. Here are some common causes: 

1. **Poor Insulation**: Inadequate insulation or insulation that has deteriorated over time can result in drafts. Insulation acts as a barrier, preventing the transfer of heat between the interior and exterior of your home. Insufficient insulation allows cold air to enter and warm air to escape, causing drafts. 

2. **Air Leaks**: Air leaks occur when there are gaps or cracks in your home’s structure that allow air to pass through. These leaks can be found around windows, doors, electrical outlets, and plumbing penetrations. Even small gaps can create significant drafts. 

3. **Worn Weatherstripping**: Weatherstripping is a material that seals gaps around windows and doors when closed. Over time, weatherstripping can wear out, become damaged, or lose its effectiveness. This can lead to drafts as cold air seeps in through the gaps. 

4. **Inefficient Windows and Doors**: Older windows and doors may not be as energy efficient as their modern counterparts. Single-pane windows, for example, offer less insulation than double or triple-pane windows. Ill-fitting doors or windows that don’t close properly can also contribute to drafts. 

5. **Crawl Spaces and Attics**: Uninsulated or poorly insulated crawl spaces and attics can allow cold air to infiltrate your home. These spaces should be properly sealed and insulated to prevent drafts. 

## Addressing Draft Issues 

If you’re experiencing drafts in your home, there are several steps you can take to address the issue: 

1. **Inspect for Air Leaks**: Perform a thorough inspection of your home to identify any gaps, cracks, or openings where air may be infiltrating. Common areas to check include windows, doors, electrical outlets, and plumbing penetrations. Seal these gaps using caulk or weatherstripping. 

2. **Upgrade Weatherstripping**: Replace worn or damaged weatherstripping around windows and doors. There are various types of weatherstripping available, including adhesive-backed foam tape, V-strip, and door sweeps. Choose the appropriate type for your specific needs. 

3. **Improve Insulation**: Ensure that your home has adequate insulation in the walls, attic, and crawl spaces. Upgrading insulation can significantly reduce drafts and improve energy efficiency. Consult with a professional insulation contractor to determine the best insulation options for your home. 

4. **Consider Window and Door Upgrades**: If your windows and doors are old or inefficient, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models. Double or triple-pane windows, for example, offer better insulation and can help reduce drafts. Properly fitted doors and windows are also crucial in preventing air infiltration. 

5. **Seal Ductwork**: Inspect your HVAC ductwork for any leaks or gaps. These can cause air drafts and reduce the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. Seal any leaks with duct mastic or metal tape to improve airflow and prevent drafts. 

6. **Professional Home Energy Audit**: If you’re unsure about the source of drafts in your home or want a comprehensive assessment, consider scheduling a professional home energy audit. An energy auditor can identify areas of concern and provide recommendations specific to your home’s needs. 

Conclusion 

Living in a drafty home can be both uncomfortable and costly. Understanding the common causes of drafts and taking the necessary steps to address them can significantly improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. From sealing air leaks and upgrading insulation to replacing inefficient windows and doors, there are various solutions available to combat drafts. If you are in this situation, we can help identify your concerns. Like others, we are not trying to make a sale or install something. Information is the key to saving you money and knowing just what the issues are.

Call us today at 270-485-2662/270-702-7804 or www.proviewinspections.info for your home inspection needs. Check out our Blog while you are at our site for additional information. #whatsinyourcrawlspace #wehaveyourback #BigCrawler #inspectedonceinspectedright #certifiedhomeinspector #owensborohomeinspector #inspectyourhome #homeinspector #homeinspectors #jagoehomes #thompsonhomes #customhomes #newconstruction

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