How To Fix Drafty Windows In My Home

There are several ways to fix drafty windows and help prevent this issue from happening in the future. Here are a few of them.

The first step to fixing drafty windows is identifying the source of the leak. To do that, you can perform a simple lit candle test. Turn off all the lights and turn on all the fans in your home to simulate how wind would affect your home were it open to the elements. Then, go around your home with a lit candle and see if any of the flames flicker when they are near your windows. If they do, there’s a good chance you have drafty windows. You’ll also want to check for excess condensation on your window panes; that is another sign of leaky windows. If you find out that your windows are leaking, you may consider window replacement.

You should also look at your utility bills from past months. If they seem high even when you haven’t been using more energy than usual, it could be that much of your heat is escaping through the cracks in your window panes.

Finally, look at your windows for physical signs of damage, such as peeling paint or missing caulk or putty around them. These imperfections will likely allow air to escape from within your home out into the cold weather outside, and vice versa during warmer months.

What to do

Drafty windows are a common problem, and it can be expensive to have them fixed. However, there are some things you can do yourself to help improve the drafty windows in your home.

1. Check the seals

First, check the seals around your windows. If you notice any cracks or places where more caulking should be put in, make sure that you get that done as soon as possible. This will help prevent air from getting inside of your home.

2. Check the weatherstripping

Second, purchase new weatherstripping from your local hardware store, taking measurements of your window first so that you know exactly how much you need and whether or not it will fit. Install the weatherstripping around the inside of the window frame to seal any gaps between the frame and sash. You may also want to replace caulk around any parts of the frame that are not flush with the wall or siding outside.

3. Put strips of plastic over your windows

Third, look for strips of plastic that you can put over your windows during the wintertime. These are very helpful in keeping cold air out of your home, and they don’t cost a lot of money either.

4. Apply plastic film over window glass

Plastic film can be used as a temporary solution for drafty windows, but it does not have the same level of insulation as other materials such as vinyl replacement windows or double pane windows with argon gas between the panes. Applying plastic film over window glass is easy and inexpensive to do during cold weather months when drafts are likely to occur.

5. Tal to a professional

Lastly, talk to your window company about whether or not there is anything else you can do to make sure that your windows aren’t drafty anymore. If they have any suggestions, make sure to follow them. You might also want to call a handyman or professional if you aren’t able to fix the problem on your own. And when it comes to window replacement, it’s a good idea to let a professional do it for you.