Urgent Door Hack to Keep Homes Warm During Northeast Bomb Cyclone

UPDATE: As a catastrophic bomb cyclone looms over New York City and the Northeast U.S., residents are urged to take immediate action to keep their homes warm and cozy. With heavy snow and travel bans expected over the coming days, it is critical to prepare for potential power outages and ensure your home is draft-proof.

Experts recommend sealing around doors and windows to combat the icy blasts from the cyclone. Punteha van Terheyden, Head of Solved, shares effective solutions to prevent drafts that could chill your home and spike your heating bills.

For homes with modern kerfed doors, consider using adhesive-free weather stripping foam, available on Amazon for under $16. This quick fix can significantly reduce drafts and maintain indoor warmth. If you’re unsure about what type of sealant suits your door, worry not—there are plenty of alternatives for various door styles.

If your door does not have a kerfed jamb, options like foam or rubber tape, tube-shaped draft stoppers, and self-adhesive bristles are available. Van Terheyden warns against using stick-on bristles if your door has a gap greater than one inch, as cold air will still seep in. Instead, she recommends a solid neoprene seal for a more effective and durable solution.

“Dealing with a drafty front door had a stark impact on my family’s comfort and our bills,” said van Terheyden. “These methods can be implemented right now to block cold drafts.”

For long-term solutions, she suggests investing in washable door stoppers. With the impending snow expected to turn into mud during spring melts, a door stopper can help keep both mess and cold air outside. Plus, they can be easily cleaned in the washing machine when they start to look worn.

Temporary door sealants are not just for external doors; applying them to internal doors can stabilize room temperatures and keep drafts at bay. Once the cyclone passes, these solutions can be removed or stored away for next winter.

As the bomb cyclone intensifies, it’s vital to act quickly. Check out more tips on draft-proofing your home on the Homes & Gardens site to stay warm during this extreme weather event.

Stay safe and cozy, and don’t forget to share these urgent tips to help friends and family protect their homes during this severe weather!