Contributed Collaborative Post
Do you often find a sudden shiver going down your spine when you’re curled up in front of Netflix? Is your heating always turned up high because you can never seem to get totally warm? Perhaps your home is suffering from a draft problem. If that’s the case, wrapping yourself in blankets and woolies might help, but wouldn’t it be better to fix the problem at the source? Here are five ways you can do just that.
1. Give Those Gaps Some TLC
Okay, so if you think you have drafts in your home, then one of the first things you will need to do is go around all of your windows and doors, and check for gaps. You can do this by lighting a candle and watching if the flame starts to flicker when placed by a door or window. If it does, then you probably need to apply some new weatherstripping that will seal things up and atop both cold air getting in, and hot air from escaping out.
2. Door Sweeps are the Helper You Didn’t Know You Needed
Does your front door have enough space at the bottom to invite a family of chipmunks inside? Then door sweeps are your new best friend. They’re basically brush-like or rubber barriers that attach to the base of your door to keep out cold air—and small critters—while still letting your door open and close easily. Plus, if you go for the brush style, you can pretend you’re giving your entryway a fabulous little haircut every time you walk in and out.
3. Thick Curtains Offer Style and Substance
Tired of your windows giving you side-eye (or cold drafts) at night? Treat your home to some thick, insulated curtains. Not only do they add a dash of style, but these heavy-duty drapes also act like a warm sweater for your windows. Come bedtime, close them tight to trap heat indoors and keep the frostiness at bay. Just remember to open them during the day to let in some sunshine—unless you’re a vampire, in which case, by all means, keep that place as dark as a cave.
4. When You’re Ready to Go Big Get New Windows
For those truly fed up with high heating bills and the symphony of wind whistling through old panes, it might be time to upgrade to new windows from Window Nation. Sure, it’s a bigger investment than slapping on some adhesive foam, but the results can be game-changing. Modern windows are designed to keep the warm air in, the cold air out, and maybe even help you qualify for energy efficiency tax credits. Translation: more money for takeout, less money lost on cranking your thermostat.
5. Rugs Are Your Friends (and Feet-Savers)
Hardwood floors are undeniably gorgeous and they’re certainly easier to keep clean, but they can also turn into frigid tundras in winter. Solve that problem by rolling out a plush rug or two. Not only will you keep your tootsies warm, but you’ll also add a splash of personality to the room. Bonus points if you go for a funky pattern that reflects your inner style guru.
Draft? What Draft?
This is a contributed collaborative post
