While they may be architecturally magnificent, sometimes older homes are known to be a little drafty. Luckily, with the right plan between you and your heating contractor, you can make your historic home as toasty as a modern construction. Here are three ways to boost the heat flow. 

How to Keep an Older House Warm

1. Add More Insulation

In many cases, older homes are made with thinner, cheaper walls like plaster that have lower R-values, meaning they don’t insulate as well. In other cases, the walls simply begin to break down, creating cracks and fissures where warm air can escape. Since hot air rises, the best place to start insulating is in the attic, and then working your way down. By using newer insulation like spray foam, you can seal every hole quickly and fortify the porous walls. 

2. Seal Holes

The draftiness in older homes usually stems from breakdowns around the doors and windows. As a first step, make an inventory of the condition of all these fixtures throughout your house. Look for cracking and peeling around the frames while also noting if you feel a chill when you’re nearby. Then, using a combination of caulking, and weather-stripping, you should be able to stop the air from getting out. 

3. Upgrade Your Heating

When you buy an older home, you’re also more likely to get the older HVAC units that come with the property. If your systems are running full bore but you’re still feeling chilly, have a heating contractor come take a look at your aging units. By upgrading your furnace, you’ll not only enjoy more warmth, but you’ll also see your heating bills start to fall. Even if you’re not ready for a whole new system, the heating contractor will still be able to conduct a repair that will boost the temperature. 

If you’ve noticed that your older home consistently gets colder than you like, consult a respected heating contractor at Empire Heating & Air Conditioning. In business for over five decades, the locally owned and operated HVAC contractor offers everything from new heating installation to furnace repair throughout Monroe County. To set up an appointment with the licensed and insured company, just call (585) 325-6768. Learn more about the business by visiting their website.