We’re almost to Spring, and like all of you, we’re happy about that here at Jerry’s Waterproofing. We’re going to “spring-forward” this coming weekend and pretty soon everything will start turning green again. We’ll have more daytime hours and more time to get work done. We’re ready! But, we still have one cold weather issue we want to talk about: drafts.
With a few cold days left, we thought we’d ask you a question. Have you noticed that you home is drafty this winter? Did you know that drafts could be a sign of foundation problems? Okay, that’s two questions….but they are both worth asking. Your foundation is one of the most important parts of your home that you never like to think about. But timely repairs can make all of the difference.
BRRR: Where are the drafts coming from?
Drafts and air leaks can make your home colder and worse yet, it can cost you money. Here are some of the most common places you may have noticed a leak:
- The attic hatch
- Around windows and doors
- Electrical outlets or phone jack outlets
- Plumbing ventilation
- Areas around recessed lighting and other light fixtures
- Wall and floor joints in your basement
Soil conditions around your home’s foundation can play heavily into the condition of your foundation. Freezing and thawing, heavy rains or drought can cause the soils to expand and shrink. This can lead to foundation settlement. When your foundation settles windows and doors shift in their frame, cracks form, and voila! You have drafts.
Sealing drafts in your home can help you save on energy bills. (Click here for some tips from energystar.gov: https://www.energystar.gov/campaign/seal_insulate/methodology)
While sealing drafts is something you can do in most cases, fixing your foundation is not such an easy do-it-yourself job. If you’ve notice draftiness this winter, give us a call. It can’t hurt! Our estimates are free of charge for homeowners and we can find a solution that fits your needs and your budget.
To get started click here for a free estimate!