October Home Maintenance: Seal Drafts and Keep Winter Chill Out
As the temperatures start to dip and the days grow shorter, October is the perfect time to prepare your home for the winter months. Drafts and gaps can cause your heating system to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and a less comfortable living space. By taking the time to seal gaps, insulate, and winterize now, you’ll save money and stay cozy all season long.
Here are four key action items to tackle this month:
1. Install Door Sweeps
Drafts often sneak in under exterior doors, letting cold air inside and warm air escape. Installing door sweeps is an easy and affordable way to stop those pesky drafts.
How to Do It: Measure the bottom of your door and purchase a door sweep that fits. These can be found at most hardware stores. Screw or stick the sweep to the bottom of the door so it creates a snug seal against the threshold.
Pro Tip: Use an adhesive-style sweep if you want a quick, no-drill option.
2. Caulk Windows
Windows are common culprits for drafts, especially older ones with worn or cracked seals. Properly caulking your windows will keep the cold out and reduce heat loss.
How to Do It: Inspect your windows for any cracks, gaps, or peeling caulk. Remove old caulk with a scraper or utility knife, clean the area, and apply fresh caulk with a caulking gun. Silicone-based caulk works best for exterior use since it’s waterproof and long-lasting.
Pro Tip: Smooth out the caulk with a damp finger or caulking tool for a clean finish.
3. Seal Attic Gaps
Heat rises, which means your attic can be a major source of heat loss if it isn’t properly sealed. Small gaps around vents, pipes, and attic hatches can allow warm air to escape, increasing your energy bills.
How to Do It: Use expanding foam or weatherstripping to seal gaps and cracks in your attic. Pay close attention to areas around light fixtures, exhaust fans, and attic access doors.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure where the gaps are, use a smoke pencil or incense stick to identify drafts. The smoke will reveal where air is escaping.
4. Add Insulation
Adequate insulation is essential for keeping your home warm and energy-efficient. Over time, insulation can settle or degrade, so it’s worth checking if you need a boost.
How to Do It: Inspect your attic, walls, and basement for adequate insulation levels. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends specific R-values for different climate zones, so be sure to check what’s appropriate for your area. Add fiberglass batts, blown-in insulation, or spray foam where needed.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to insulate attic doors, crawlspaces, and basement rim joists for maximum efficiency.
Why It Matters
Taking these steps to seal drafts and gaps isn’t just about comfort—it’s also about saving money and reducing energy waste. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, drafts and air leaks can account for up to 30% of energy loss in a home. By spending a little time and effort now, you can make a big impact on your winter energy bills.
Final Thoughts
October is the perfect month to get ahead of winter weather and ensure your home is ready for the colder months. Sealing drafts, adding insulation, and winterizing your home will keep your family comfortable, your energy costs down, and your home in top shape.
Ready to get started? Grab your caulking gun, weatherstripping, and insulation materials—and seal those drafts away!
Stay warm, save energy, and enjoy the cozy season ahead.
