If your home feels drafty in winter, your doors might be the hidden culprit. Even when fully closed, older doors can let in cold air that reduces comfort and increases heating bills. Understanding why doors leak and when to repair or replace them can save you money and keep your home cozy.
Why Cold Air Sneaks In
Doors don’t always let cold air through the panel itself. Often, the air enters around the edges where gaps form over time. Seasonal temperature changes, normal settling, and worn materials can create small openings that you might not notice—but your thermostat definitely does.
A properly fitted, sealed door keeps your home comfortable and energy-efficient, while an old, warped door can undermine your heating system.
Signs Your Door May Be Letting in Cold Air
- Visible gaps along the edges of the door
- Light shining through the frame when the door is closed
- Drafts felt near the bottom or sides
- Difficulty latching or locking
- Worn or uneven threshold under the door
Even minor imperfections can significantly impact room temperature.
Weatherstripping: The First Line of Defense
Weatherstripping seals doors against outside air, but it doesn’t last forever. Over time, it can flatten, crack, or peel away from the frame, reducing its effectiveness. Replacing worn weatherstripping can improve comfort, but it won’t fix a warped or poorly insulated door.
How Door Materials Affect Comfort:
- Older solid wood doors expand and contract, creating gaps
- Hollow-core or thin metal doors offer minimal insulation
- Cold interior surfaces pull warmth from nearby rooms
- Poorly insulated doors can drive up heating costs
Modern doors are designed with insulated cores, tight seals, and durable materials to keep heat in and drafts out.
Warping, Settling, and Threshold Issues
Doors shift over time due to moisture, temperature changes, and normal home settling. A misaligned door is harder to seal properly, leaving your entryway vulnerable to cold air.
Common warning signs include light showing around the frame, difficulty closing or latching, and worn or uneven thresholds. Even small gaps at the bottom allow cold air to sink into your home, making rooms near the door uncomfortable.
When Replacement Makes Sense
- Cold air is always noticeable around the door
- Sealing or alignment is difficult
- Energy bills keep rising
- The door shows warping, rot, or other damage
While minor issues can sometimes be fixed with adjustments or new weatherstripping, replacing an old door is often the most effective solution.
Professional Solutions for Comfort
At ACRE Windows & Doors, we specialize in high-performance entry doors installed with precision. Proper sealing and professional installation are just as important as the door itself.
A professional evaluation can identify the cause of drafts and recommend the best solution for your home.
Ready to Upgrade Your Entryway?
Don’t let cold air compromise comfort or energy efficiency. Schedule a free in-home estimate with ACRE Windows & Doors and explore modern door options designed for year-round performance.
