“I never really thought our house was all that drafty,” Karen said, “but honestly, in between my job and the kids’ schedule, I’m not home that much. But my Mother moved in with us, and she’s here all of the time. Apparently there are really cold drafts in the living room and the back bedroom where she sleeps, as well as in the bathroom. I’d like to know what I can do about this situation.”
What Makes a Home Drafty?
Before you can solve a problem, it helps to know what caused it. Cold drafts are a sign that exterior air is coming into your home. While this is happening, the warm interior air is leaking out. If you’re not feeling the drafts, one way to see if your home is drafty is to check your home heating costs. If they’re higher than the should be, your home could be drafty.
How is the air coming into and going out of your home? Chances are that your home’s windows are the culprit. Energy efficiency experts estimate that up to 40% of a home’s heat can be lost through leaky windows and doors. While that warm air is getting out, cold air and moisture is getting in. The result? Cold drafts.
What Can Be Done to Fix a Drafty House
The simplest, most effective way to get rid of cold drafts is to upgrade your existing windows to windows that fit better and are more energy efficient. Having replacement windows installed in Pembroke is easy and affordable. You can choose from a huge variety of styles and colors. Vinyl replacement windows are a great option for the homeowner who wants an easy maintenance option.
The Impact of Drafts of Your Family’s Health and Happiness
Cold drafts may seem like an inconvenience, but they can have serious health consequences for anyone who has difficulty staying warm. Older and elderly people are particularly vulnerable to cold drafts, as are small children, particularly those who are still crawling. Remember, warm air rises, so the floor can be the coldest part of a room. This is also an issue for pets. To keep your family happy and healthy, you’ll want to get rid of the cold drafts.