The Hidden Draft Problems in Coastal Homes Built Before 2005 (And How to
Stop It Fast)
Author:
Better Blinds, a locally owned window treatment specialist proudly serving
homeowners across Sussex County,
Delaware. With years of experience helping coastal residents enhance comfort,
privacy, energy efficiency, and style, Better Blinds provides expert guidance
and high-quality blinds, shades, and shutters tailored to the unique needs of
Delaware homes.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Why
Pre-2005 Coastal Homes Lose Heat Faster
3. The
Sussex County Coastal Climate Factor
4. Signs
Your Home Has Hidden Window Drafts
5. Quick
Comfort Upgrades That Actually Work
6. Why
Certain Shades and Shutters Work So Well
7. Why
Many Local Homeowners Choose Better Blinds
8. A
Simple Weekend Plan for a Warmer Home
9. Frequently
Asked Questions
10. Conclusion
Introduction
If your Delaware beach home feels chilly even when the heat is running,
you’re not imagining it. Many coastal houses built before 2005 suffer from
hidden draft issues, especially around windows. These homes were constructed
before modern energy standards were tightened, leaving small gaps that become
major comfort problems every winter.
In Sussex
County’s damp, windy coastal environment, cold air doesn’t simply drift
inside, it’s pushed in by steady ocean breezes. The result is cold spots near
windows, higher heating bills, and rooms that never quite feel cozy, especially
after sunset.
Fortunately, you don’t need a full renovation to fix the problem. Strategic
window treatments, particularly insulating shades and shutters can dramatically
reduce drafts while making your home warmer, quieter, and more inviting. Many
local homeowners turn to Better
Blinds custom window treatments in Sussex County for solutions
tailored specifically to coastal Delaware homes where humidity, salt air, and
winter winds create unique challenges.
Why Older Coastal Homes Lose Heat So Easily
Homes built before stricter energy codes often weren’t sealed as tightly as
newer ones. Builders used the standards of the time, and energy efficiency
simply wasn’t the focus it is today.
Over the years, a few things have happened:
·
Caulk dries out and cracks
·
Frames shift slightly
·
Hardware loosens
·
Materials expand and contract with humidity
·
Salt air slowly breaks things down
None of this looks dramatic. But together, it creates tiny gaps that let
cold air in nonstop. Windows are always the weak point because glass doesn’t
insulate like walls do.
The Coastal Weather Factor
Winter near the ocean feels different. Even when the thermometer doesn’t
show extremely cold, damp air makes everything feel chillier. Add steady wind,
and that cold finds its way inside.
Elevated homes have it even tougher. Air moves underneath the structure and
around exposed floors. Large picture windows, great for summer views, become
major heat-loss areas in winter.
Homeowners often compare real local installations before deciding what will
work best, which is why many browse coastal window
treatment projects by Better Blinds for examples in homes just like
theirs.
How to Tell If Drafty Windows Are the Problem
You don’t need special tools. Your body will tell you.
Look for signs like:
·
Cold air near the glass
·
Rooms that never feel fully warm
·
Higher heating bills
·
Condensation on windows
·
Curtains moving on windy nights
·
Avoiding certain spots because they feel chilly
Many homeowners only realize how much comfort they’re losing after reading
experiences from neighbors through Better Blinds customer
reviews from Sussex County homeowners.
“Better Blinds did an awesome job on
our new house. Crissy was very knowledgeable and helpful to us in choosing
our... View over 200 reviews”
Mary Ellen Graziano
Upgrades That Actually Make a Noticeable Difference
You don’t have to replace your windows to make it feel warmer. The right
coverings can change how a room feels overnight.
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
If I had to recommend one upgrade that consistently works, this would be it.
Cellular shades trap air inside small pockets, creating insulation between
the cold glass and your room. That trapped air acts like a buffer against
outside temperatures.
They’re especially effective in bedrooms and living areas where comfort
matters most in the evening.
Warm neutral tones, sand, beige, soft gray, also make a room feel cozier
during darker winter months.
Layered Shades
Layered shades give you flexibility. You can let light in during the day and
create privacy and insulation at night without raising the entire shade.
They’re ideal for open-concept beach homes with large windows. Cordless
designs keep things clean and safe as well.
Many homeowners choose this option after speaking with local professionals
who understand coastal installation challenges through professional window
treatment services from Better Blinds.
“I had an awesome experience with the
team at Better Blinds! It started with the in-home consult from Chrissy. She
came... View over 200 reviews”
Melvelyn Greene
Motorized Blinds
Motorized blinds aren’t just convenient; they help manage heat
automatically.
Close everything at sunset to trap warmth inside. Open during sunny hours to
capture natural heat from the sun. You don’t have to remember to do anything.
For second homes or rentals, this can make a huge difference.
Why These Options Work So Well Near the Coast
Coastal homes don’t just need insulation, they need durability. Materials
must hold up to moisture, salt, and sun.
Plantation shutters remain popular because they provide a solid barrier and
a timeless look. Cellular shades excel because of their insulating air pockets.
Layered treatments add extra protection.
Homeowners often research materials and craftsmanship on the Better Blinds
company background and expertise page before deciding what fits
their home best.
Why Many Local Homeowners Choose a Local Specialist
Coastal homes come with unique challenges. Salt exposure, shifting
structures, HOA rules, and storm wear all matter. National chains don’t always
account for these details.
Better Blinds
focuses specifically on Sussex County homes and offers in-home
consultations and professional installation, so everything fits tightly, which
is critical for stopping drafts.
Homeowners in surrounding Sussex County communities often explore options Better
Blinds to see solutions designed for similar coastal properties.
“Installation was flawless and the difference in warmth was noticeable
the same day.”
A Simple Weekend Plan for a Warmer Home
If you want to get results quickly, here’s a practical plan.
Friday evening: Walk through your home after
sunset. Notice where you feel cold. Sit near windows. Pay attention to problem
areas.
Saturday: Schedule a consultation or shop for
insulating coverings. Focus on performance first, style second. You can find
helpful ideas on the company’s blog and design resources.
Sunday: Install the coverings and close them at
dusk. Many homeowners say rooms feel noticeably warmer the very first night.
“What a wonderful experience! Husband
and wife owned business. They are very proud of the product they sell and do
such a... View over 200 reviews”
Ruth Mania
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my house still feel cold even when the heat is on?
Warm air may be escaping faster than your heating system can replace it. Air
leaks around windows and doors are one of the most common causes.
Source: U.S.
Department of Energy
What’s the fastest way to stop cold air from coming through
windows?
Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk and add insulating window coverings to
reduce heat transfer.
Source: ENERGY
STAR
Do cellular shades really make a difference?
Yes. Cellular shades reduce heat loss by trapping air inside their honeycomb
structure.
Source: U.S.
Department of Energy
Are old windows usually the main problem?
Often, yes. Older glazing and worn seals allow significant heat transfer
compared to modern insulated windows.
Source: National Renewable Energy Laboratory
Can better window coverings lower heating bills?
They can help by reducing the amount of heat escaping through windows, which
lowers demand on your heating system.
Source: U.S.
Department of Energy
Should I replace windows or try coverings first?
If the windows are structurally sound, coverings are usually the fastest and
most affordable first step.
Source: Consumer
Reports
Why do coastal homes feel colder than inland homes?
Wind and humidity increase heat loss from both buildings and people, making
temperatures feel colder near the ocean.
Source: National Weather Service
Conclusion
Older Selbyville beach homes have charm, character, and incredible coastal
locations, but winter drafts can make them uncomfortable if windows aren’t
properly protected.
You don’t need major renovation to fix the problem. Insulating window
treatments can turn cold rooms into warm, comfortable spaces quickly, often in
just a weekend.
Cellular shades, layered shades, motorized blinds, and shutters all help
trap heat while maintaining the relaxed coastal style homeowners love.
With guidance from Better
Blinds custom window treatments in Sussex County (), many homeowners
find they can enjoy cozy evenings without the cost and disruption of replacing
windows.
About Better Blinds, Sussex County, DE
Better Blinds provides custom blinds, shades, shutters, and motorized
window treatments for homeowners throughout Sussex County, including Ocean
View, Bethany Beach, Millville, and Selbyville. Their local team specializes in
coastal-ready materials, expert design guidance, and professional installation
built to withstand Delaware’s climate.
Homeowners can request a Free In-Home Consultation to receive
personalized recommendations for style, privacy, energy efficiency, and budget.
With 200+ five-star Google reviews, Better Blinds is widely trusted for
quality workmanship, honest advice, and beautiful long-lasting results.
Contact Better Blinds:
📞 (302) 402-6180
🌐 https://betterblindsshades.com/
⭐ Reviews: https://betterblindsshades.com/reviews/
✉️ sales@betterblindsshades.com