How do I find the leaks that make my house drafty?

Older homes can be drafty, but there are easy ways to detect and to seal holes and gaps.

Take advantage of the next cold or windy day by going hunting for draft-causing leaks and holes. Consider the smoke test — use a lit incense stick and note where the smoke travels. If it goes horizontal, you’ve probably located a source of a leak. Know that the primary culprits are usually ductwork and holes in the attic, around pipes, and at electrical outlets.

For even better draft prevention, use weatherstripping along doors and windows to block out the cold and to form tighter-fitting bonds.