keep drafts out from under door

Keeping Drafts Out from Under the Door Simple Solutions for a Comfortable Home

Every homeowner knows the struggle of maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, particularly during the colder months. One major culprit that can undermine our efforts to keep our homes warm is the unwelcome draft that sneaks in from underneath doors. These drafts can cause an increase in heating costs, disrupt your comfort, and make your living space feel less inviting. Fortunately, there are effective and straightforward solutions to keep these pesky drafts at bay.

Understanding the Problem

Drafts entering through doors occur when there is a gap between the door and the floor. This gap might be due to various reasons such as settling of the house over time, wear and tear of the door, or even seasonal changes that cause materials to expand and contract. The chill from drafts can lead to discomfort, requiring you to crank up the heating system and increase your energy bills in the process.

Before implementing a solution, it’s wise to assess your doors to identify where drafts are seeping in. On a windy day, use a candle or a stick of incense to see if the flame flickers or the smoke drifts toward the door. You can also run your hand along the bottom and sides of the door to feel for cold air. Once you identify the problematic areas, you’ll be better equipped to address the issue.

Draft Stoppers The First Line of Defense

One of the easiest and most affordable methods to block out drafts is to use a draft stopper, also known as a door snake. These are fabric tubes filled with materials like rice or beans, and they are placed at the base of the door. You can easily purchase these at home improvement stores or sew your own with leftover fabric. Simply measure the width of your door and fill it accordingly. Not only are they functional, but they can also serve as decorative elements in your home.

Weatherstripping A Permanent Solution

For a more permanent solution, you may want to consider weatherstripping. This technique involves applying adhesive foam or rubber strips to the door frame or the bottom of the door to create a seal that blocks drafts. Weatherstripping is available in various forms, including V-strip, adhesive-backed foam, and door sweeps. Installing weatherstripping is a straightforward DIY task that requires minimal tools, and it’s an effective way to reduce energy loss and boost comfort.

Thresholds and Sweeps Extra Barriers

If drafts persist despite employing draft stoppers and weatherstripping, it may be worth adding or replacing your door threshold. A threshold is a small strip of material placed at the bottom of the door frame that can help reduce gaps. Additionally, door sweeps are attached to the bottom of the door itself, sealing the gap between the door and the floor. These are effective methods to combat drafts and improve energy efficiency.

Insulated Doors An Upgrade Option

If you’re looking for a more significant investment, consider upgrading your doors to insulated models. Insulated doors are designed to prevent heat transfer and keep the cold air where it belongs—outside! While this might be a larger initial expense, the long-term savings on your energy bills and the increased comfort in your home can make it worthwhile.

Conclusion

In conclusion, drafts sneaking in from under your doors may be a minor annoyance, but they can significantly affect your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Utilizing simple solutions such as draft stoppers, weatherstripping, and door sweeps can effectively keep these drafts out and create a warm, inviting space for you and your family. If you’re willing to make a bigger investment, insulated doors can provide long-term benefits that justify the cost. With these strategies in hand, you can reclaim comfort in your home, ensuring that the only thing coming through your doors is good company, not unwanted drafts.