When fall weather approaches, we gear up for sweaters, apple cider, and beautiful fall colors. We enjoy the fall air during the day and stay warm and cozy in our homes at night. One thing that we should also be prepared for is the cold that could potentially seep into your home through drafts! By identifying areas of your home that may have cracks, you can save energy and reduce your heating bills this fall, all through draft protection!

5-Step Series to Prepare Your Home for Fall Weather!

Here are some tips for sealing off air leaks in your home. This will not only save you energy but will keep you warmer as the cool weather comes our way! First, locate where outside air is seeping in by testing it with an incense stick or smoke pen. Hold the item carefully next to the windows, doors, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, attic hatches, or any other place you anticipate a leak. If the smoke travels horizontally, you’ve found the source!

1. Windows

Cracks or gaps can form around your windows, so after you’ve located the leak, use caulk and weatherstripping around the area to keep warm air in and cool air out!

2. Doors

As with your windows, once you’ve identified the source of the leak, proceed to use caulking or weatherstripping on the sides and top. For the bottom of the door, replace the thresholds with ones that have a pliable sealing.

3. Electrical Outlets

Most homeowners don’t think of their electrical outlets as being a big source of air leaks, but they are, in fact, quite common. The same rules apply when sealing these leaks. Caulking and weatherstripping will help. You can also install foam gaskets behind the outlet and switch plates on your walls.

4. Attic

Sealing off your attic can be more difficult. Firstly, the right insulation should be installed to provide maximum energy efficiency and create a barrier between the roof and your home. Secondly, be sure that your attic hatch is weatherproof, using caulk and weatherstripping. If your attic has fallen prey to old or moldy insulation, reseal those spots with spray foam.

5. Large Gaps

If you are a resident of an older home, your baseboards may have large cracks due to age. Use a foam sealant on any larger gaps in your home; this will save time, energy, and money and ensure that you are getting the most bang for your buck!

When preparing for fall, be sure to call in a professional if the situation seems like a little more than a DIY fix!

As always, you can call F.H. Furr for more info on weatherizing your home!

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