Practical guidance
Find and Seal Door and Window Drafts
Simple checks around doors and windows can improve comfort and reveal worn seals that need attention.
By KL Properties
Worn weatherstripping and gaps around movable parts can make rooms uncomfortable and allow outdoor air, dust, or insects inside.
What to do
- On a cool or windy day, feel around closed doors and windows for moving air.
- Look for daylight around exterior doors and inspect weatherstripping for cracks, flattening, or missing sections.
- Clean the surface before applying replacement weatherstripping sized for the gap.
- Adjust or replace a worn door sweep if light or air enters beneath the door.
- Use removable rope caulk or another renter-friendly product where permanent changes are not allowed.
Do not seal intentional ventilation openings, appliance vents, or window drainage holes. Cracked glass, rotted frames, water intrusion, or a door that will not latch securely needs repair rather than a cosmetic seal. Renters should get approval before making permanent changes.