The PennZone

PHILADELPHIA - PennZone -- Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can take that will make your winter months much cozier.
Why Are Older Homes So Difficult to Keep Warm?

Modern homes are known for being virtually airtight.

That makes regulating the indoor temperature rather simple. In contrast, older homes were built to breathe. The construction
methods didn't try to block all outside air from getting inside.
On the contrary, both the walls and the windows were expected to allow for a small amount of
air to penetrate. The airflow keeps mold to a minimum but makes it an uphill battle to keep the
house warm during the cold months.

Insulation

Many older homes were constructed without insulation. Remember, the house was supposed to
breathe. Insulation would stop the air from flowing through the walls. Yes, it would help keep the

More on The PennZone

• Search Is Broken. Curated Discovery Is the Future
• 20 Ways to Save Money Running a Van
• How Fortress Law Group Turned a DUI Arrest in Ohio Into a Full Acquittal at Trial
• Breaking the Silence: Tour Sparks National Conversation on Men's Mental Health and Domestic Abuse
• Mr. Hospital Bed Helps Home Care Buyers Find the Right Hospital Bed

house warm, but it would also present the opportunity for moisture to get trapped in the walls
causing mold and decay.

Windows

The windows in older homes are often single-pane windows. The glass is so thin that you feel
that if you lightly tapped it, it would break. Cold air has no issue getting past those windows and
entering the home. In contrast, today's homes have insulated, double-pane windows that are
highly efficient.
Also, over the years, the insulation around old windows will crack or fall away. That makes it
possible for even more cold air to get in.

Things You Can Do to Warm Up Your Older Home

Caulk Your Windows

Do you feel occasional gusts of air when sitting near your windows? You'd be surprised at the
difference a little caulk can make. Taking the time to fill the gaps around all your windows will pay off in large dividends.

Let the Sunshine In

On sunny days, pull back the window treatment so the sun can do its job to make your home

More on The PennZone

• New School Announces Student Enrollment
• Able Rooter Expands Services to Offer Premium Water Heater Installation Across St. Louis
• Director Sean McNamara Reunites with Award-Winning Cinematographer Shawn Seifert for Upcoming Feature Home
• J. Kenton Pierce Wins Prometheus Award for Best Novel
• Ezra Wohlgelernter Named as a 2026 Philadelphia Power Broker by City & State PA

warmer. When the sun fades, immediately close the curtains to keep that heat from going back
the way it came.

Go Heavy on the Drapery

Switch from summery curtains to wintery drapes. The thickness of the drapes will block the cold
air.

Do Something About That Drafty Door

Older homes have gaps beneath their doors caused by the house settling on its foundation. You
don't need a high-tech solution for the problem. An ordinary rolled-up towel will do the trick.

Contact HVAC Philly today at https://hvacphilly.com and arrange to talk with an experienced technician. He'll explain how simple it can be to get through a Philadelphia winter in an older house and still remain warm.