Simple Ways Metro Detroit Homeowners Can Reduce Drafts During This Cold Snap
Metro Detroit is in the middle of a bitter cold stretch, and when temperatures drop like this, drafts and air leaks become impossible to ignore. Cold air sneaking in doesn’t just make your home uncomfortable — it also forces your furnace to work harder and drives up energy bills.
The good news? There are several simple, cost-effective steps homeowners can take right now to reduce drafts and keep warm. Here are some practical solutions that work especially well for Michigan winters.
Replace Worn Weather Stripping on Windows and Doors
One of the most common sources of drafts is old or damaged weather stripping. Over time, weather stripping can crack, flatten, or pull away, allowing cold air to slip in around windows and exterior doors.
What you can do:
- Inspect weather stripping around doors and operable windows
- Replace any sections that are brittle, torn, or missing
- Focus on entry doors, sliding doors, and older windows
This is a low-cost fix that can make an immediate difference in comfort.
Use Window Insulation Film
If you have older or drafty windows, insulation film is a quick and affordable temporary solution. This clear plastic film is applied to the interior side of the window and shrunk tight with a hair dryer.
Why it helps:
- Creates an extra barrier that reduces cold air infiltration
- Helps keep warm air inside your home
- Still allows natural light to come through
Window film is especially helpful during extreme cold spells like the one Metro Detroit is experiencing right now and can be useful for a temporary solution.
Add or Improve Attic Insulation
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a poorly insulated attic is one of the biggest contributors to drafts and heat loss. Warm air naturally rises, and without proper insulation, it escapes quickly.
Signs you may need more attic insulation:
- Rooms that feel cold even when the heat is running
- Ice dams forming on your roof
- High heating bills during winter
Adding attic insulation can significantly improve comfort and energy efficiency, even in older homes throughout Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties.
Seal Small Gaps and Cracks
Small air leaks around trim, outlets, and baseboards can add up. While each gap may seem minor, together they can allow a surprising amount of cold air into your home.
Quick fixes include:
- Applying caulk around window and door trim
- Using foam sealant for larger gaps
- Installing outlet and switch plate insulation
These simple upgrades are inexpensive and can be done in an afternoon.
Consider New, Energy-Efficient Windows
If drafts are persistent, even after trying temporary fixes, it may be time to consider window replacement. Old or failing windows often have broken seals, poor insulation, and worn frames that allow cold air inside.
For homeowners in Metro Detroit, we recommend Polar Seal windows, which are made right here in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Polar Seal windows are designed for Midwest weather, offering:
- Superior insulation
- Tight seals to prevent air leaks
- Long-term energy savings
New windows are a bigger investment, but they provide the most effective and permanent solution to drafts and heat loss.
Stay Comfortable Until the Cold Breaks
This extreme cold is expected to stick around for another week, making now the perfect time to tackle drafts and air leaks. Even small improvements can make your home warmer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient.
If you’re dealing with ongoing drafts or want to explore longer-term solutions like new windows or insulation upgrades, working with a local Metro Detroit contractor can help ensure the job is done right — and built to handle Michigan winters.