Caulking and weatherstripping

Cold air infiltration can be responsible for as much as 30% of your heating bill. It follows that an investment in caulking and weatherstripping can represent substantial savings. Read this section and learn how to detect sources of cold air infiltration and fix them with caulking and weatherstripping.
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Insulation
Carpet or linoleum
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Starting with a thorough inspection
Caulking windows and doors
Installing weatherstripping on doors and windows
Installation
Unused windows
Garage doors
Air vents and other outlets
Other possible infiltration sources

Starting with a thorough inspection

Before proceeding with caulking and weatherstripping, thoroughly inspect interior door and window frames. On a windy day, light up an incense stick and run it along the frames. If the smoke flickers and dissipates, you've probably identified a cold air infiltration source. Take temperature readings in various areas of a room; if you find differentials of more than two degrees, look for a source of infiltration. Reduced air circulation could also be the cause of your problem. If you have reason to suspect that, check the air filter in your heating system and call your heating specialist if you find the filter obstructed.

Caulking windows and doors

Begin with the outside of the doors and windows. Remove old caulking using a knife or a old chisel. Re-caulk, using a gun and a silicone or polyurethane-based product. For aesthetic reasons, apply a product you can paint over or one in a colour that blends in well with the colour of your house. Be sure to seal the entire joint or crack in a straight line. When caulking storm windows, avoid caulking the vent holes so as not to interfere with the release of excess humidity from inside the house. Caulk the inside of your windows and of the window casements using a temporary transparent silicone product. When spring comes, you can simply strip off the caulking. Note however that some products release an unpleasant odour for a few days. Caulk door frames with silicone and don't forget nail holes and other openings.
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