The Nifty Solution For Drafty Doors That Keeps Your Home Warmer In Winter

During the winter, the costs of heating your home can quickly add up — and it's only getting more expensive. In 2024, the National Energy Assistance Directors Association estimated that heating expenses in the United States would rise 8.7%. That brings the average seasonal bill to $941 compared to $866 last winter. If you're spending all that money on heat, you want to lock it in. Luckily, anti-draft tapes are one inexpensive solution that can keep you warmer this winter. 

In your home, about 30% of your heat is lost due to drafts in your doors, windows, and other gaps. One of the main causes behind drafty doors is a worn weatherstrip, which has the sole purpose of filling cracks and spaces around the feature to cut down on this exact problem. Fortunately, replacing it is easy to do on your own, and there are simple tips for how to weather strip your doors and windows to keep out the cold. In addition to traditional weatherstrips, you can explore alternatives like anti-draft adhesives or tapes. 

Currently, one popular option is Alien Seal's Anti-Draft Adhesive, which is available in a 3-pack for only $19.99 at Home Depot. Made of silicone, Alien Seal is designed to work on a variety of surfaces including wood, glass, tile, and metal. Generally, reviewers seem pleased with the product, giving it a 4.6-star average. One reviewer stated that it was "easy to install and almost invisible. I've used it on steel, aluminum and wood and no issues with sticking." Another reviewer wrote, "Covered all the window gaps in just a few minutes and the results were immediate!" 

Although many reviewers enjoy Alien Seal, some express that it doesn't necessarily work on all areas. One customer complained that the adhesive failed on windows where condensation builds and will tear off paint. Similarly, another reviewer urged buyers to "read the directions regarding the types of surfaces you're able to use this tape on, otherwise you may get unwanted results." 

In addition to Alien Seal, you can look into similar products to temporarily reseal drafty windows and doors, like Holikme Weather Stripping Door Seal. The anti-draft tape had an overall 4.1-star rating and is available in a 2-pack for $15.99. One reviewer stated, "The strips were easy to install and I felt the difference right away." However, there were some complaints about the product's hold. Another customer wrote, "My problem is its adhesive is not strong enough: ends of the strips peel off from the door." Like Alien Seal, reviewers also noted that the strip may peel paint off surfaces when removed. Trying one of these anti-draft tapes might be worth it, considering it's fairly inexpensive and can make a major difference. However, there are also other ways to stop the cold air from coming inside your home.

There are several types of weatherstripping materials available including seals made of plastic, metal, felt, and foam. For many, plastic or metal V-strips are a popular choice, as it is durable enough for high-traffic areas without standing out. This material gets it name from its shape as it is folded into a "V" to develop a spring that compresses to form its seal. V-strips last for years. However, they can make it harder to open your doors or windows, and are more difficult to install than alternatives like felt or foam strips.

Beyond using tapes or weatherstrips, you can also look into door draft stoppers. These objects are placed inside at the bottom of your door to close up gaps. You may be wondering, "Do door draft blockers really work?" Well, yes. While they can't completely replace proper weatherstripping, they are a useful add-on. Although you can purchase door draft stoppers, they're also easy to DIY. Most are made of fabric stuffed with batting, rice, beans, or similar material. To create one, use old pillowcases or even transform unused clothing. As long as the finished product is heavy enough to stay in place but is still malleable, it should work. You can even attach it to your door with a magnetic strip or velcro to avoid having to move the blocker every time you go in or out.