
Why is there a draft coming through my front door?
As the seasons change, ensuring your home is energy-efficient becomes essential. Drafty windows and doors can let in cold air during winter and warm air in summer, forcing your heating or cooling system to work harder.
A draft at your front door can be both uncomfortable and costly. It can lead to higher energy bills, discomfort, and even damage to your home. If you’re experiencing a draft, it’s important to identify the cause and take steps to address it.
Identifying the Source of the Draft
To pinpoint the source of the draft, perform a simple test. Hold a candle or incense stick in the drafty area and hold it near the door. If the flame flickers or the smoke from the incense stick doesn’t go straight upwards, there’s likely to be a draft. Move the flame or incense stick around the doorframe to identify the exact location of the draft.
Common Causes of Drafts
Weather-stripping deterioration
Weather-stripping is a crucial component of any home’s insulation. It helps to seal gaps around doors and windows, preventing cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.
Over time, weather-stripping can become worn, cracked, or damaged, allowing cold air to seep through, leading to increased energy bills and discomfort.
It’s a good idea to do visual inspections to check for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears or gaps. Feel around the edges of your doors and windows to see if you can feel cold air seeping through.
Weather-stripping comes in various types, each suited for different need:
Adhesive-backed foam tape is ideal for sealing small gaps in windows and doors; it’s easy to install and affordable but less durable in high-traffic areas.
V-seal weather-stripping works well for sliding and double-hung windows or door sides, providing a flexible, long-lasting seal, though it can be more difficult to install.
Door sweeps are designed to seal gaps under doors, offering durability and effectiveness for larger gaps, but may affect door movement if not installed properly.
Felt weather-stripping is inexpensive and simple to apply, but it’s best for windows and doors that aren’t frequently used due to its lower durability.
Tubular rubber, vinyl, or silicone strips are great for sealing larger gaps with excellent insulation.
Metal weather-stripping provides a permanent, highly durable solution, though installation can be more complex.
You can clean and lubricate your weather-stripping to help it move smoothly, but if it’s severely damaged or no longer effective, it’s time to replace it. Choose the type that best suits your needs and the style of your home.
Door alignment issues
A misaligned front door can lead to drafts, water leaks, and difficulty opening and closing. Here are some steps you can take to address this issue:
- Identify the Problem
Check the door hinges: Are they lose, bent, or damaged?
Inspect the door frame: Are there any warping or structural issues?
Examine the door itself: Is it swollen or warped? - Adjust the Hinges
Loosen the screws: Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws on the hinge plates.
Shift the door: Carefully adjust the door’s position to align it properly with the frame.
Tighten the screws: Once the door is aligned, tighten the screws securely. - Address Frame Issues
Shim the frame: If the frame is slightly out of alignment, you can use shims to adjust it. Place shims between the frame and the door to create a more even gap.
Repair or replace the frame: If the frame is severely damaged, you may need to repair or replace it. - Consider Door Replacement
Severe damage: If the door itself is severely damaged or warped, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. - Professional Assistance
If you’re unable to resolve the alignment issue yourself or if the problem is complex, it’s recommended to consult a professional.
At Rocks Locks, we are experts in door re-alignment and will be able to advise on what action to take to resolve the issue.
Rocks Locks: Your Trusted Locksmith
We offer expert locksmith services in and around the Camberley area. Rocks Locks has the experience and knowledge to diagnose and resolve door and window alignment and security issues efficiently. We’ll provide a thorough inspection and recommend the best solution for your specific situation.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and put an end to those pesky drafts.