Stopping door drafts is a practical way to improve comfort and save energy in your home.
Drafts typically occur where the door meets its frame or the floor. Fortunately, fixing these issues is often straightforward and can be done with simple materials. By addressing leaks around your doors, you prevent warm air from escaping in winter and cool air from entering, and vice-versa in summer.
Here are the primary ways to eliminate drafts around your doors:
Key Methods to Stop Door Drafts
Based on common practices and the provided reference, these are effective steps:
- Seal the Door Frame: Apply weatherstripping along the sides and top of the door frame. This material, available in various types (foam, rubber, vinyl), creates a seal when the door is closed, blocking air gaps.
- Address the Door Bottom: Install new door sweeps at the bottom of the door. These flexible seals attach to the door's interior side and brush against the threshold or floor, preventing air from entering beneath the door.
- Check and Adjust the Threshold: Inspect the area where the bottom of the door meets the threshold. Look for gaps between the door and the threshold. If necessary, you may be able to adjust the height of your existing threshold or replace it with a new, adjustable one to create a tighter seal.
- Add a Storm Door: For an extra layer of insulation and draft protection, consider installing a storm door outside your main door. This adds another barrier against the elements and drafts.
Other Considerations for Drafty Doors
Beyond the core methods, check these areas:
- Inspect the Door Itself: Sometimes drafts come through cracks in the door panel or around glass inserts. Seal cracks with caulk or replace damaged panels.
- Check Door Hardware: Ensure hinges are tight and the door closes properly against the frame seals.
Materials for Fixing Door Drafts
Fixing drafts often requires a few inexpensive items.
| Area to Fix | Recommended Material(s) |
|---|---|
| Door Frame Sides | Foam, Rubber, Vinyl Weatherstripping |
| Door Bottom | Door Sweep (Vinyl, Brush, Rubber) |
| Threshold Gap | Adjustable Threshold, Caulk |
| Door Panel | Caulk, Wood Filler |
Using these methods helps create a more comfortable and energy-efficient home by eliminating unwanted air leaks.
