Summary: Many homeowners in Michigan deal with drafty houses, especially those living in older homes. The main cause? Heat escaping through the roof. This article explores why your home is drafty, how to spot problem areas, and ways to fix these issues permanently. While you can tackle this yourself, hiring professionals like MAG insulation services can save time and ensure proper fixes. Good insulation helps maintain comfortable temperatures, improves indoor air quality, and reduces energy bills. Let’s explore how to make your home cozy and draft-free.
The Real Reason Behind Drafty Houses
Many people think windows and old HVAC systems cause drafty houses. While these can contribute, they’re usually minor factors. The real problem is often heat escaping through the roof. When warm air in your home rises, it gets trapped in upper floors and attics. Cooler air then settles on lower floors. This creates a vacuum effect, called the stack effect, pulling cold air from outside through foundation cracks and gaps. Your home cycles air faster than needed, making it hard to keep a comfortable temperature and affecting indoor air quality.
Identifying Drafts in Your House
Common Signs of Drafts
To make your home draft-free, first find where drafts occur. Look for cool air bursts near doors, windows, or walls, and gaps along floorboards, doors, and fixtures. Try a candle or incense test. Walk around and watch the flame or smoke move. Drafty areas will cause noticeable movement. Mark these spots with painter’s tape. For a thorough check, hire a professional energy auditor. Many local utilities offer cheap or free energy audits.
Performing a DIY Draft Assessment
1. Visual Inspection: Look for visible gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and the foundation.
2. Touch Test: On a cold day, feel along edges and seams for entering cold air.
3. Thermal Leak Detector: Use this tool to check temperature differences around your home.
If you’re unsure or want a thorough assessment, a professional energy auditor can provide a detailed examination.
Fixing a Drafty House in Three Steps
Step 1: Air Seal Your Attic and Home
Air sealing your attic and home is the first step to fight drafts. This involves finding and plugging gaps, cracks, and crevices that let air travel. Good air sealing stops warm air from escaping through your home’s top. This job can be detailed and time-consuming, so hiring qualified professionals ensures it’s done right and efficiently. Air sealing is crucial for stopping drafts and improving home comfort. Professionals have the expertise to seal these areas effectively.
Step 2: Insulate Your Attic
Many older homes have poor attic insulation, leading to heat loss and drafts. Good attic insulation prevents heat transfer and stops heat from escaping through your roof. The U.S. Department of Energy suggests attic insulation with a thermal value of at least R-49, about 15 inches of insulation. Proper insulation creates a comfortable living space and effectively stops drafts.
Insulation Materials
For attic insulation, you have several material choices, each with pros and cons. Fiberglass insulation and cellulose insulation are popular due to their effectiveness and affordability. For more information on insulation types, visit Michigan Homeowners: Ditch Vapor Barriers! Discover the Power of Cellulose Insulation.
Professional Insulation Services
Hiring professionals like MAG Insulation ensures your attic is insulated correctly. Their team has the knowledge and equipment to handle insulation installation efficiently. They can also recommend the best materials based on your needs and budget.
Step 3: Air Seal and Insulate Your Foundation
The foundation is a major cold air entry point. Air sealing and insulating where the foundation meets your home is vital for stopping drafts. Professionals typically use 2-part foam or foam board with a sealant. Given its complexity, this task is best left to professionals. They have the skills and tools to efficiently seal and insulate your foundation.
Short-Term Solutions to Keep Your House Warm
While working on permanent solutions, try these short-term tips to keep your home warm:
1. Draft Blockers: Make draft blockers for windows and doors.
2. Insulated Window Treatments: Install thermal curtains.
3. Blanket Coverings: Hang old blankets over exterior doors.
4. Weather Stripping: Add fresh weather stripping to doors and windows.
5. Fan Usage: Use bathroom and kitchen fans less often.
These temporary measures can help until you complete the necessary air sealing and insulation work.
Professional Help for Permanent Fixes
Fixing a drafty house can be challenging and time-consuming. Hiring professionals ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently. MAG insulation services offer a range of services for insulation and weatherization needs. Their expertise includes air sealing, insulation installation, and more. They understand Michigan homeowners’ unique needs, providing tailored solutions and high-quality materials.
Why Choose MAG Insulation?
Experience and Expertise: MAG Insulation employs experienced professionals who use top-tier insulation and sealing products designed to last.
Free Inspections: They offer insulation testing and inspection services to assess your current insulation quality and identify areas for improvement.
Tailored Solutions: MAG Insulation professionals provide insights into various insulation options, helping homeowners choose materials suited to specific needs.
For more information, check out Michigan Homeowners: Ditch Vapor Barriers! Discover the Power of Cellulose Insulation.
Commercial Services
MAG Insulation also serves commercial clients, providing insulation products and services for contractors, builders, and property managers. This makes them a versatile choice for all your insulation needs.
Benefits of Proper Insulation
Energy Efficiency
Proper insulation reduces how quickly air cycles through your home, leading to less strain on your HVAC system. This results in lower energy bills and a more sustainable home.
Improved Comfort
By sealing drafts and ensuring consistent temperatures, proper insulation makes your living environment more comfortable, regardless of the season.
Better Indoor Air Quality
Air sealing and insulation help reduce outdoor pollutants and allergens entering your home. This ensures healthier indoor air quality.
Increased Home Value
Investing in proper insulation can increase your home’s value. Potential buyers often look for energy-efficient, well-insulated homes.
Get Started Today
If you’re ready to fix your drafty house, consider partnering with MAG Insulation. Their team provides efficient, effective insulation services backed by years of expertise. Don’t let a drafty house compromise your comfort. Contact MAG Insulation today to schedule an appointment and begin your journey towards a warm and cozy home.
For more information on their services and to get started, visit their website at MAG Insulation.
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