A door that doesn’t seal completely, not only creates uneven temperatures in your home, it also can cause your energy bills to spike as your HVAC system works harder to maintain your home’s internal temperature. A draft that pass in around your doors can be a result of wear and tear, damage to the frame, weather stripping, or door, or poor installation. While drafts are more commonly seen around older doors, it is possible that even newer doors can be drafty. In some cases, the issue can be corrected and the draft can be stopped, in other cases the only option is for a full door replacement.
Here are several common issues that can lead to a draft entering your home, and how to fix these issues.
Worn Out Weather Stripping
Your weather stripping helps ensure a solid seal between your door and the frame. When the weather stripping has worn out or is damaged, it is no longer able to provide an airtight seal. Replacing your old weather stripping is a quick, easy, and fairly inexpensive way to stop drafts. If your current door doesn’t have weather stripping, installing stripping will definitely help to stop or reduce drafts.
Replacing the Sweeps
Door sweeps block gaps that exist at the bottom of your door. These gaps are a gateway for drafts, and blocking them will solve many draft issues that come from that area. Door sweeps also add an aesthetic quality to any home. You can replace your door sweep with ones that provide an added pop or that match your home design.
Adding Foam Tape
Foam tape, like weather stripping will help seal any gaps around your door. Installing foam tape is simple and inexpensive. Just make sure it is applied in the proper area to help stop drafts.
Use a Door Snake
Door snakes are essentially draft stoppers for the bottom of your door, think of a thin long bean bag. They cover the space between the door and threshold. Having your door snake flush against your door will block any draft from entering from under your door.
Cracked Caulk Around Your Door
If the caulking around your door frame is cracked or peeling, it most definitely allowing for air to flow through the spaces. Re-caulking your door will be an effective way of fixing a drafty door. All you need is a tube of exterior caulking to replace your old caulking once you have removed your old, damaged caulking.
Door Hinges Have Loosened
Over time it is possible for the hinges on your door to loosen. If this occurs, your door will no longer be square to the frame. This may cause your door to rub against the frame or even the floor when opening and closing, it can also lead to gaps between your frame and your door. Tightening the screws or if needed replacing the old screws with longer ones will secure your door back in place, and may allow for your door to once again seal properly.
Hopefully the above tips will help eliminate your draft issues. If, however your draft is due to a damaged door or frame you may not have the option of repairing the issue. Consult with a professional door specialist to review your options.