Sealing the Deal: How to Detect and Fix Drafty Windows

Do you need to put on an extra pair of socks when you’re watching a movie on the couch? Do you haul out a heap of blankets when the weather turns cold outside? Remember, heat rises and cold air drops to the floor. If your feet are cold, that’s a good sign your windows aren’t working as well as they should.

Drafty windows are a common problem that can lead to discomfort in the home, especially during the colder months. Cold and drafty windows can make your home or office feel uncomfortable and uninviting. Drafts occur when air moves freely through the cracks around a window, allowing cold air to enter in the winter and hot air to escape during the summer months. They’re not only annoying, but can also cause energy bills in all seasons to skyrocket.

But how can you tell if your windows are drafty? Besides the obvious “feel” of drafty windows, another sign that the seals are no longer working is the appearance of condensation in between the panes. Windows are made of glass and are heat (and cold) conductors. Homeowners may not feel a strong draft from the window, but it doesn’t necessarily mean there isn’t an energy suck.

The Window Draft Test

Perform these simple tests to tell if your windows are drafty:

Hold a lit candle or incense stick near the window frame and observe the flame or smoke. If it flickers or moves, that’s an indication of air movement, which means the window is drafty.
Place your hand near the window frame and feel for cold air coming in.
Use a draft detector, a tool that lights up when it detects air movement, to check around the window frame and sill.

Many families in Mount Airy resort to the “tape and plastic” method to stave off the winter cold or air conditioning loss in the summer. Unfortunately, plastic and tape isn’t the best solution for drafty windows. Even in the best of conditions, the plastic doesn’t seal airtight. The tape doesn’t stick well to the panes and may even damage your trim and sealant. It’s also unsightly, renders your windows unopenable, and causes a lot of hassle for a solution that’s not so effective.

Why you need a Professional

Replacing old windows with new, energy-efficient ones is often the best way to reduce drafts and save money on heating and cooling costs. Replacing drafty windows requires careful planning and attention to detail. Professional window installers have the experience and expertise necessary to ensure that your new windows are properly installed, sealed, and insulated for maximum energy efficiency.

Time and time again, homeowners share how much new windows improve their quality of life, comfort, and happiness in their home. By investing in professional window replacement services, you can enjoy increased comfort in your home while also saving money on energy bills throughout the year.