Winter is almost upon us, and every Buffalonian knows what that means. Snow, snow, and more snow will begin piling up on our streets and lawns, forcing us indoors. As such, it’s more important now than ever before to make sure your home is warm and comfy for the months ahead. The best place to start is with your front door.
Your front door is the main barrier between you and the outdoor world. Without proper preparation, you will be dealing with drafts and high heat bills.
Here’s what you can do to prepare:
Replace Weather Stripping
Replace old, bent, or cracked weather stripping around the frame of the door, and the door itself. If there’s a gap between the door and its frame, add in a layer of weather stripping to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.
You can pick up weather stripping at your local hardware store, or purchase a removable seal that will slide onto the bottom of your front door, to seal up any gaps.
Reapply Caulk
Inside your home, reapply caulk where the door frame meets the drywall. Do the same on the outside where the frame meets the siding. These commonly overlooked areas are responsible for a lot of cold homes during the winter. A generous strip of outdoor caulk sealant will do the trick, but make sure to check the caulk each year and reapply when necessary.
Install Window Shades
If your door has a large window, installing shades or blinds can help prevent heat loss. Additionally, insulated shades or blinds can help prevent cold air from seeping in through the window.
Add a Storm Door
If you don’t already have one, add a storm door to your front door. This extra layer of insulation will keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
If you haven’t replaced your front door in a few years, it may be time for an upgrade. Learn more about Ivy Lea Construction’s door replacement by calling us at 716-875-8654 today!