The Ultimate Winter Draft Hunt: How to Identify and Fix Hidden Air Leaks Around Doors, Windows, and Garages

Michigan winters have a way of exposing every weakness in a home. Even a well insulated space can start to feel chilly once temperatures drop, and most homeowners do not realize how much heat is escaping through small, hidden air leaks. A winter draft hunt is a simple, hands on walkthrough that helps you discover exactly where cold air is entering your home and what steps you can take to seal it.

Begin by moving slowly through each room and paying attention to how the temperature shifts as you go. If certain areas feel colder, stand near doors and windows to sense whether air is drifting in.

One of the easiest ways to spot leaks is the candle test. Light a candle or stick of incense and hold it near door frames, window edges, outlets, and baseboards. If the flame flickers or the smoke pulls in one direction, there is an air leak that needs attention. This test is especially helpful near older entry doors where weatherstripping may be cracked or compressed. When you notice light shining through gaps or the air feels cold near the bottom of your door, it may be worth upgrading to a ProVia or Therma Tru Doors model designed for superior insulation.

Windows deserve the same level of inspection. Run your hand around the edges of the frame to feel for cool air, and check the interior side for signs of condensation or frost. Drafty windows often rattle slightly in the wind or allow blinds to sway even when closed. Replacing aging units with modern, energy efficient windows from North Star or ProVia dramatically improves comfort and reduces heat loss. These brands are engineered to withstand freezing temperatures while keeping warm air inside your home.

Your garage can be one of the largest sources of winter drafts, even if you do not spend much time in it. Stand inside with the overhead door closed and feel along the sides and bottom of the door. If you notice cold air pouring in or see daylight along the edges, the seals have likely worn out. This matters more than people think because cold air in the garage often transfers directly into the home.

Garage doors from Amarr or Door Link Manufacturing offer insulated construction that keeps winter conditions outside where they belong. For homeowners who want smooth and reliable operation even in extreme cold, LiftMaster Professional openers maintain consistent performance.

While you move throughout your home, check storm doors, basement windows, attic access points, and any place where two materials meet. Weatherstripping is often the first line of defense against winter drafts, and once it hardens or cracks, it no longer seals properly. Replacing worn materials can offer an immediate improvement while you consider long term upgrades.

Eliminating drafts is one of the easiest ways to increase comfort and lower heating bills during Michigan winters. When you combine simple fixes with high quality doors, windows, or garage systems, your home becomes warmer, more efficient, and far more resilient through the coldest months of the year.

If you need help identifying or repairing winter drafts, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free winter efficiency inspection and quote.

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Call 248.399.9900

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