You can cover a door draft effectively by sealing gaps around the door using solutions like draft stoppers, weatherstripping, or door sweeps.
Drafts originating from under or around your door can lead to significant heat loss in the winter and cool air loss in the summer, making your home less comfortable and increasing energy bills. Covering these gaps is a simple and effective way to improve insulation.
Understanding Draft Stoppers
One popular method to address drafts, especially under the door, is using a draft stopper.
- What is a Draft Stopper? Based on the reference provided, a draft stopper is basically a fabric tube filled with insulating material. This material can vary widely, from common household items like polyester fiber or recycled stuffed animals to simple dry goods like rice for a homemade version.
- How it Works: The tube is placed along the bottom of the door frame. Its primary function is to block cold air from entering your house (or warm air from escaping) through gaps at the bottom of a drafty door. Some types attach to the door itself and move with it.
- Benefits:
- Easy to use and requires no installation for the simple tube style.
- Inexpensive compared to other sealing methods.
- Can be decorative or homemade.
Other Effective Draft Covering Methods
While draft stoppers are great for the bottom gap, other areas around the door frame can also be sources of drafts.
Here are some common methods to cover door drafts:
- Weatherstripping: This involves applying adhesive foam, rubber, or felt strips around the sides and top of the door frame where the door meets the frame when closed. It creates a seal that blocks air leaks. Different types offer varying levels of durability and effectiveness.
- Door Sweeps: These are typically made of metal, plastic, or rubber and are attached to the bottom of the door itself. When the door is closed, the sweep creates a tight seal against the threshold, effectively covering the gap underneath. Some designs have brushes or fins to conform better to uneven surfaces.
- Caulking: For small, stationary gaps in the door frame or where the frame meets the wall, caulk can provide a permanent seal. This is best for areas that don't involve the moving parts of the door.
Choosing the Right Solution
The best way to cover a door draft depends on where the draft is coming from and the size of the gap.
| Draft Location | Recommended Solution(s) |
|---|---|
| Under the door | Draft Stopper, Door Sweep |
| Sides/Top of frame | Weatherstripping, Caulking (for frame) |
| Around the frame | Caulking |
Using a combination of these methods often provides the most comprehensive solution for eliminating drafts around your door, leading to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home.
