DRAFTY
HOW TO FIX
WINDOWS
Drafty windows make it hard to keep utility costs down.
On top of letting out the heated and cooled air, you’ll also
find that drafts affect your comfort.
Windows can lose their seal due to age or other forms of damage.
Fixing the underlying cause restores your home’s energy efficiency
and keeps your living environment at the perfect temperature.
Find the
Drafty Spot
If you can figure out where the air is getting in, you’ll have
a better chance at fixing the issue. You can use your hand
to feel around the perimeter of the window.
Holding a candle as you move your hand is another option.
If you see the flame flicker, then you’ll know that air is hitting it there.
Once you find a spot, use a sticky note or tape to mark it. Keep in mind
that you may have several areas around the window that need repair.
Put a Draft
Stopper on the
Window Sill
Drafts that are at the base of the window can be blocked right away
with a snake-style stopper or pillow. This method is just a temporary
fix since keeping a stopper in place forever isn’t feasible.
Photo from Amazon
Replace or Add
Weatherstripping
Weatherstripping is made from rubber materials that block drafts well.
These materials can break down over time, and it is common to have
to replace weatherstripping after several years.
If the weatherstripping around one window is in need of replacement,
then it is worth doing all of the windows at once to stop drafts in other
places before they start.
Repair or Replace
the Caulking
Window caulking is also used as a seal, and it breaks down over time
just like weatherstripping. You might be able to see areas of the caulking
that are cracked or completely missing during a visual inspection.
Small areas of damage can be repaired as patches, but you’ll need to
have the windows completely re-caulked if there are large or multiple
damaged areas.
Have the
Windows
Reglazed
Special putty is used between window panes to hold everything
together. This putty can also break down over time, and this is especially
common to find on older windows.
Window reglazing removes the old putty and replaces it with new
materials to stop drafts that occur around the panes.
Replace the
Window
Serious drafts may require a more permanent solution. Drafts can also
happen if the window frames become damaged or develop cracks
around them.
It is also possible that your dual pane windows have somehow lost their
seal. Homes with single pane windows might need to be upgraded
to a more energy-efficient type to fully block out the air.
Add New
Window
Treatments
Properly sealed windows shouldn’t generate drafts. Adding layers
of window treatments serves as extra protection in case a new
problem occurs.
Try combining blinds with heavier curtains. Thick fabrics work
well as insulation, and you can change out the curtains
to lightweight ones in the summer.
Window drafts are a frustrating problem, and it can sometimes be hard
to figure out where the air is coming from.
If you’re not sure why the window is drafty, then an inspection
is the best way to identify the right solution for this common
home maintenance problem.
Raben Glass has over 40 years of experience in the residential
and commercial glass industry.
We take pride in providing top quality service as we replace dual pane
windows, install glass shower enclosures, and build storefront metal
and glass entrances. We are bonded and insured, and our work
and products are guaranteed.
Showroom by appointment only:
1826 W Broadway #25
Mesa AZ 85202
(623) 466 5376
info@rabenglass.com
www.rabenglass.com