How to Fix a Drafty Room

Use heavy curtains to block drafts from windows.

Cold air can seep through areas such as older window frames or under exterior doors, resulting in chilly drafts. Drafty rooms cause your energy bills to rise as the furnace or air conditioner works harder to heat or cool the space. Blocking the drafts from entering a room lowers energy costs and keeps moisture from filtering in during rainy or humid conditions. Simple, yet effective products and techniques can keep drafts from filtering into a room.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Window weather stripping
• Heavy fabric curtains or drapes
• Long fabric tubes

Instructions

1. Inspect window frames for gaps between the frame and wall. Measure around the window with a tape measure. Cut weather stripping to the exact dimensions of the measurements. Peel off the backing from the weather stripping to expose the adhesive backing, and press it into the gaps around the frame.

2. Check the damper on your fireplace and close it if opened. An open damper allows drafts to enter the home through the fireplace.

3. Hang thick fabric curtains or drapes over windows to keep out drafts. Heavy material works better than thin to stop cold air from seeping into the room.

4. Place a long fabric tube along the bottom of an exterior door to keep cold air from filtering in. You may also place the tube along window sills.

Tips & Warnings

• Have a heating and cooling professional check for leaks in the duct work in your home if the room continues to have drafts.

References

• Apartment Therapy: 5 Ways to Insulate Your Windows for Winter
• Home Energy Team: Solutions for Drafty Rooms