How to Seal Drafty Windows Without Replacing Them

Drafty windows are a common problem that plague many homeowners, especially during the colder winter months. While drafts may seem like a minor inconvenience, they can actually have many detrimental effects on your home’s energy efficiency and may be indicative of greater issues with the functionality of your windows. In this post, we take a closer look at some of the negative impacts that drafty windows can have an how you can seal them without replacing them altogether.

The Detrimental Effects of Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can have many detrimental effects including:

• Decreased Energy Efficiency: Drafts of cold air especially during the winter months can significantly affect the energy efficiency of your home. They can reduce the effectiveness of your home’s heating system and cause it to have to work harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, worsening energy efficiency and increasing your energy bills.
• Reduced Indoor Comfort: Cold air during the winter months can also create uncomfortable cold spots within your home. This can make your home feel unevenly heated and may reduce your comfort levels while you are indoors.

How to Seal Drafty Windows

There are several ways to seal drafty windows without replacing them altogether, including:

Applying Weatherstripping

Applying weatherstripping around the frames and sashes of your windows enables you to create an airtight seal that can block drafts and prevent warm air from escaping. Weatherstripping materials can come in various forms, ranging from foam tape to rubber, offering suitable options for every type of window.

Adding Thermal Curtains or Heavy Drapes

While thermal curtains and heavy drapes may not be able to deal with the root cause of the drafts coming from your windows, they can significantly mitigate the negative effects of these drafts. These window treatments can act as an additional layer of insulation for your windows, reducing heat loss and ensuring that the cold air from the drafts does not negatively affect your comfort at home.

Using Caulking to Seal Gaps

If your window drafts are caused by gaps between the window frame and the wall, a simple but effective way to deal with these gaps is to use caulking. Caulk can be easily applied wherever there are gaps and are able to effectively block air leakage and moisture leakage through the gaps.

The Importance of Cleaning and Maintaining Your Windows Regularly

To keep your windows in good condition and to ensure that they are not affected by drafts, it is also important for you to clean and maintain them regularly. Regular cleaning enables you to spot signs of wear and tear while they are still at an early stage, such as cracks in the caulking or gaps in the frame. This enables you to address these issues before they worsen or cause drafts. Window Cleaning Online is the leading online supplier of professional window cleaning supplies in Australia. Visit our online store today to get everything you need to keep your windows clean!