Quick Answer
Use a candle, incense, or a small smoke source to detect drafts in your winter shelter. Observe how the smoke behaves, moving to areas of increased airflow. This indicates where to seal gaps and improve insulation.
Detecting Drafts with Smoke
A candle or incense is a simple and effective tool for detecting drafts in your winter shelter. Hold a lit candle or incense stick near the shelter’s walls, doors, and any gaps. Observe how the smoke behaves, moving towards areas of increased airflow. This indicates where to seal gaps and improve insulation. For example, look for areas where the smoke is drawn out of the shelter, or where it tends to accumulate.
Sealing Gaps and Improving Insulation
Once you’ve identified the areas of increased airflow, use materials like caulk, spray foam, or natural materials like mud, snow, or pine needles to seal the gaps. Be sure to seal gaps around windows, doors, and any openings for vents or chimneys. Use a combination of materials to achieve maximum insulation. For example, use a layer of insulation like straw or recycled denim near the floor, and a layer of reflective material like aluminum foil on the ceiling to reflect heat.
Testing for Wind Resistance
To test the overall wind resistance of your winter shelter, use a technique called the “wind test.” Hold a piece of paper or a small flag near the shelter’s entrance or any weak points in the structure. If the paper or flag is easily moved or drawn towards the shelter, it indicates that the shelter is not resistant to wind. Use this information to reinforce the structure, add additional support, or modify the design to improve wind resistance.
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