Feeling cold even when you’re resting at home? Leaky windows could be to blame. These sneaky cold air leaks can make your place uncomfortable and increase your energy bills as an unpleasant bonus. But what causes drafty windows? Age, wear and tear, and poor installation can all lead to gaps and misalignments.
For those who are wondering how to seal drafty windows, in this article, FHIA, the top window experts in Florida, will explain how to spot drafty areas in your windows and share some easy ways to fix them. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your home warm and your finances in check.
How to Test for Drafty Windows
Let’s start with diagnostics. You can pick from numerous window insulation check methods. Choose the ones most convenient for your situation and that utilize tools you likely already have in your home.
Visual inspection
Drafty apartment windows can sometimes be so obvious that detection doesn’t even require special tools. Just pay attention to the corners and places where the edges meet the frame. If there are big window gaps or damaged weatherstripping, these will be immediately apparent.
You can also try to darken the room as much as you can during the day. Close all your curtains and blinds, then closely examine the edges of your windows. If you see any light coming through, that's a sign of gaps where air can come through, too.
Piece of paper test
It’s another easy yet effective method that only requires something you definitely have at home — a piece of paper. This test works for cases when you can’t actually see the gaps yourself.
First, open your window widely. Grab a single piece of paper, place it on the sill, and close the window, letting a bit of it stick out. If the paper can be easily removed without ripping, your solution isn’t sealing tight. This little gap means air can sneak in, which means your windows are drafty.
Candle test
The candle test can help detect even tiny air movements, so it’s pretty sensitive. That’s why make sure to turn off any fans, air conditioners, or heaters that might create some airflow in the room.
Get a candle, light it up, and move it around the edges of your closed windows, closely watching the flame while you do this. If you see the flame flickering or leaning to one side, that’s a definite sign there’s a draft. But be careful with an open flame.
Light curtains for drafty windows
This method is based on lightweight fabrics' reaction to moving air and is handy for spotting window drafts in big spaces or if you need to check several options at once.
Just hang a light, thin curtain by your closed windows and see how the fabric moves on a breezy day. If the curtains are swaying or puffing up, your solutions have cracks.
Infrared thermometer
Infrared thermometers are a bit pricier than other options. These gadgets can measure surface temperatures without direct contact. You should aim the thermometer at various areas around your window frame and glass and assess the temperature you get against those of the walls nearby. If you notice major temperature differences, especially cold spots, that could mean outside air leaks.
How to Fix Drafty Windows
Now that we've discussed the diagnostic methods, let's get down to business and see how to stop drafty windows.
Foam tape
Foam tape is a sticky strip you can stick on the window edges to ensure an airtight seal. Some consider it to be the best way to seal drafty windows, as foam tape doesn’t cost a lot, and you can find it in different widths and thicknesses to fit various gaps.
But keep in mind that foam tape might not last as long as some other options. Durability can be an issue since the foam might compress over time. Too hot or cold weather, humidity, or frequent operation can speed up this damage. Plus, foam tape might not stick well on uneven surfaces.
Plastic for drafty windows
It’s another great way to stop drafty windows. This method is about putting a thin plastic sheet over your solution with double-sided tape, and then using a hair dryer to stretch it. It helps keep out drafts and doesn’t cost much. Plus, you can take the plastic film off in spring without damaging window frames, so it's perfect for the changing seasons.
However, achieving a wrinkle-free application can be a bit of a challenge, especially if you're new to it. You need to be patient and have a steady hand to avoid air bubbles or creases. The plastic wrap or film application can be especially annoying when you're dealing with bigger options or ones that have unusual shapes. And, of course, it’s a temporary fix for drafty windows.
Removable caulk
Removable caulk is a temporary sealant meant to fill in the gaps around windows, and you can easily peel it off when you don’t need it anymore. It’s a great option for those who are wondering how to fix drafty windows in rental.
Applying removable caulk doesn’t require any extra tools or special skills. Most of the time, you can just do it by hand — press it into the gaps around solutions and smooth it out to ensure a good seal.
That said, removable caulk could require you to put it on more often. It’s also not an ideal solution for drafty windows with big gaps. While it’s budget-friendly, you could end up spending more in the long run if you find yourself insulating drafty windows several times a year.
Clear nail polish
If you have small cracks, you can use clear nail polish to seal drafty windows during winter. Its advantage is that nail polish is almost invisible once it dries up. However, it won’t help with any big gaps around the opening’s frame.
Thermal curtains
Thermal curtains are thick, layered curtains meant to keep out window drafts and minimize heat loss. They not only help insulate drafty windows in an apartment but can also make your room look better and lower noise levels.
However, as physical barriers, they might block out some natural light. Plus, you’ll need to install them correctly using curtain rods. And be ready that the best curtains for drafty windows can be pricey.
Interior storm windows
These are extra window panes you can install on the inside of your solutions. They add an extra layer of insulation, and you can take them off when you don't need them. Although they're pricier than a few other choices, they reduce drafts and don’t alter your house exterior.
Most above solutions for drafty windows are budget-friendly, especially in comparison to replacement options. However, it’s key to understand that most of them are easy fixes. Their performance can be particularly tested during Florida’s intense storms and hurricane seasons. Even firm weather stripping in old windows might not hold up against severe weather, leaving your home open to drafts and moisture.
What to Do When Nothing Helps
If you're not into DIY and feel uncomfortable fixing drafty windows on your own, that's totally fine. There are lots of choices for those who'd rather let the professionals handle this task. If you’re seeking long-term solutions, replacement windows offer advanced features that your existing solutions may lack.
Focus on options with an Energy Star rating. These solutions are certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) and meet strict guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy-efficient replacement windows usually come with several panes, special coatings, and insulated frames to help decrease your energy bills, make you feel comfortable year-round, and even cut down your carbon footprint.
Florida homeowners can also benefit from new windows with SolarMax® Glass. They can block up to 95% of UV rays, keeping your furniture and floors safe from sun damage. Even better, they’re built to handle winds and flying debris, so you not only get rid of leaks but also get solid protection when the storm season starts.
Opt for new, high-quality solutions from FHIA Remodeling! We’re Florida's biggest impact window company and a partner with ETI, PGT, and CWS, prominent manufacturers in the industry. Our team offers some of the top warranty protections in the state, covering installation, accidental glass breakage, and even hurricane glass breakage. If you’re considering requesting a free quote online today, our window replacement experts will gladly assess your needs, recommend the most suitable products, and create a detailed quote! Contact us and take the first step toward comfort, energy savings, and peace of mind!
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