What Mike Holmes Recommends
If your house feels drafty, it’s not just bad luck your house is telling you something is wrong. Did you know the average home loses about 30 percent of its heat due to drafts? According to Mike Holmes, drafts are common around windows, doors and fireplaces, or sometimes homeowners feel cold spots along walls or floors. Here are 5 reasons your home could be drafty, and the areas Mike Holmes recommends may need some attention.
1. Poorly Sealed Windows and Doors
Heating your home is expensive, so make sure that heat stays inside. Check your windows and doors for worn-out weatherstripping and caulking if they’re deteriorated, replace them. Holmes states on his blog that weatherstripping is typically a simple DIY project, with self-adhesive options readily available. Also, consider adding a door sweep to
prevent drafts from entering at the bottom of doors. Holmes recommends to make sure it’s flush with the threshold but not dragging on the floor.
If you have older single-pane windows, window film can be a quick fix by adding a layer of insulation. While insulated window treatments help, replacing single-pane windows is a more permanent solution. I often see poorly installed windows and doors with inadequate insulation around them. Use low-expanding foam to fill those gaps without damaging frames.
2. Cracks and Gaps Everywhere
You’d be amazed how much cold air sneaks in through tiny gaps around pipes, electrical outlets, and the foundation. Mike Holmes says, “Don’t ignore them. Seal them with the right materials, like silicone caulk or expanding spray foam, to reduce drafts and save on energy costs.”
3. Insufficient Insulation
Older homes or improperly insulated walls, attics, crawlspaces,and basements are major culprits in heat loss. Upgrading your insulation is an investment that pays off in both comfort and savings, according to Holmes. Renovating or working on an unfinished basement? Use the opportunity to check for air leaks and moisture. Addressing these issues before finishing the space saves you money and headaches later.
4. Fireplace and Chimney Leaks
Fireplaces are cozy, but if the damper is open or not sealing properly, it’s an opportunity for cold air to enter your home. Likewise, chimney flues can let drafts in if they’re not closing correctly. Get these areas checked and sealed. In many renovations, we swap out old wood fireplaces for electric
inserts. These modern alternatives require no venting, are highly efficient, and provide warmth without the drafts.
5. Vents and Exhaust Fans Not Sealed
Dryer vents, kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans, can also let warm air escape if they lack proper backdraft dampers or seals. Make sure these systems are sealed and functioning correctly. Fixing them improves comfort, saves energy, and cuts down on utility bills
If you want to stay warm and save money, Mike Holmes says don’t ignore the signs of a drafty home. Address these common issues promptly to protect your investment and keep your home comfortable year-round.
About Mike Holmes:
Mike Holmes, contractor and popular TV host on HGTV, is your go-to guru for home renovations. With over 3 decades of
experience, he focuses on safety, quality and innovation on his own projects.