How to Stop Cold-Air Leaks in Winter | This Old House

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows how to save money and stay warm by plugging up energy-wasting gaps, holes and cracks. (See below for a shopping list and tools.)

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Up in the loft, Tom shows Kevin a few easy ways to save on energy bills by weather-stripping doors and windows. First, Tom shows a "sweep" that can be installed on the bottom of an exterior door to seal out drafts. He also shows a type of weather-stripping that attaches to the door jamb and compresses around the perimeter of the door. For windows, Tom suggests locking them in the winter. He also recommends weather-stripping for both the top and bottom sash in double-hung windows. For gaps on older windows, he suggests foam "backer rod" or "removable caulk." For electrical outlets on exterior walls, Tom suggests foam gaskets that mount behind the face plates.

Shopping List for How to Stop Cold Air Leaks in Winter:
- door sweep [amzn.to/2LlCDzN]
- sash lock [amzn.to/2NS6e5N]
- weather stripping [amzn.to/2NUcF87]
- foam-rubber backer rod [amzn.to/2ZS3B66]
- temporary caulking [amzn.to/2PNNd6Q]
- outlet gasket [amzn.to/2O2qemn]
- minimal-expanding foam [amzn.to/2LtL5vJ]

Tools for How to Stop Cold Air Leaks in Winter:
- handsaw [amzn.to/2MUBqla] or aviation snips [amzn.to/2POaWnF], to cut door sweep
- utility knife [amzn.to/2MXO9n9]
- drill/driver [amzn.to/2ZQS4nM]

Weather-stripping of all kinds can be found at most hardware stores and home centers. Many other energy saving tips can be found at Energy.gov [bit.ly/38557d5]

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Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewers—and we make house calls! Ask This Old House features some familiar faces from This Old House, including Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook.

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How to Stop Cold-Air Leaks in Winter | This Old House
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