Winter drafts are a common issue homeowners face at some point. While they might seem harmless, these cold spots make your HVAC system work harder and force you to pay higher energy bills during the colder months.
Thankfully, it’s not too late to fix this issue before temperatures drop for good. This post goes through some of the most common draft sources and how our insulation experts can help.
The Biggest Sources Of Drafts In Most Long Island Homes
Attics and Roof Gaps
If you have an attic, your home is naturally more exposed to cold drafts. Warm air naturally rises and escapes quickly through the top part of your home through:
- Hatches
- Vents
- Recessed lights
- Rooflines
Without proper insulation, these cracks can pull warm air out while creating cold spots throughout your home. If your home is still chilly even when the heat’s on, upgrading your attic’s insulation could make a big difference.
Around Windows and Doors
Doors and windows could last from 15 to 20 years before you consider replacing them. Once they’re worn out, small gaps form around the edges and let cold air in. If you notice cold spots every time you walk by a specific window or door, it’s a clear sign there’s air leakage. Sealing or even replacing these could keep more of the heat in this winter.
Basements and Rim Joists
Besides attics, basements are another area of the home that’s naturally colder. The concrete walls retain cold air, and even small cracks can let some in. Rim joists can also pose a problem if the area lacks sufficient insulation, and they can even spread drafts to the upper floors.
For basements, spray foam insulation is especially effective. It seals gaps, blocks moisture, and creates a strong barrier that keeps your home comfortable throughout the coldest winter days.
Walls Without Little to No Insulation
While a home’s exterior can protect it against the elements, some older homes simply don’t have a reliable insulation system in place to seal it. This is why some walls feel cold when you touch them in the winter. Poor or outdated insulation also creates massive temperature swings and cold spots throughout the home.
Electrical Outlets
Electrical outlets might seem small, but they can let in a surprising amount of cold air. These openings often cut into exterior walls and create tiny gaps that can let drafts in. While you could add outlet sealers as a quick fix, the root of the problem generally boils down to an insulation issue and improper air sealing.
Seal Your Home’s Drafts Once And For All
Don’t suffer through another freezing Long Island winter with cold drafts in your home. With proper insulation and air sealing, you can create a comfortable space that stays warm this season. Our experts at Radiant Insulation & Drywall have been providing homeowners high-quality insulation systems for over 55 years. If you want to protect your home this winter, contact us at (631) 924-0500 to learn more.
