If the draft you feel is more than fantasy, the culprit is likely an old or worn window. Windows with leaks are energy-sucking nuisances that might make rattling, whistling noises, and spike your heating bill. Here’s how to tackle drafty windows before temperatures drop to create an energy-efficient home, for real.
CHECK YOUR WINDOWS FOR AIR LEAKS
Tiny air leaks have a big effect on your energy bill. You’ll have to use more than your eyes to catch a drafty window, however, a visual inspection is a good start. From the outside, look for areas where the caulking leaves gaps between the window frame and your home’s siding.
Inside, try lighting a candle and slowly move it around the window frame. If it bends or flickers, use a pencil or sticky note to mark the spot of the leak so you can seal it. Look for any signs that the weather stripping needs to be replaced.
SO YOU HAVE A DRAFT? New house or old house, it’s not uncommon to have drafty windows. Here are five ways to fix a drafty window yourself:
Difficulty Level: Easy
1. INSTALL OR REPLACE WEATHER STRIPPING. Easy and inexpensive, weatherstripping your windows tightly seals gaps. You can find weather strips at most hardware stores.
Difficulty Level: Easy
2. GET FANCY. Swap out lightweight curtains for something heavier like thermals or layered curtains. For drafts coming from the bottom of the window, add a draft snake. You can buy a draft snake or make one yourself.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
3. USE CAULK. Start by cleaning the surface and removing any old caulk and paint. Apply caulk to all joints in a window frame and the joint between the frame and the wall.
Difficulty Level: Moderate
4. ROLL OUT THE PLASTIC. Insulation film, basically a giant sheet of saran wrap, sticks to the borders of your windows with double-sided tape until you heat it with a hair dryer to shrink and seal it tightly.
Difficulty Level: Challenging
5. GIVE IT UP. Sometimes, your best option is to replace the window. Replacement involves removing the trim casing around the window, and installing insulation between the window and its frame. When it’s time to let go of that worn, rotted, or rattling window, call a Marvin professional. TH Remodeling & Renovations installs windows by top-quality brands. We’ll help you choose the best Marvin window for your individual needs.
It’s best to face your window issues head-on. Fixing drafty windows lets you relax in a warm, comfortable home and will save you money on energy bills. Get started with these five easy fixes, or contact TH Remodeling & Renovations for more information on Marvin window installation and repair.
