• Money Pit Feeds
  • Print
  • Email

Drafty Window Solutions

Keep windows drafts at bay with these easy solutions

Tue, 02/17/2009 - 13:01 — Tom Kraeutler
Filed Under: Living Spaces, Decorating and Design, Windows and Skylights, Green Home, Saving Energy, Seasons
Summary: 

Drafty windows lead to higher winter heating bill.  Drafty windows can be sealed with a combination of caulk and weather stripping.  Drafty windows can also be covered with insulating shades to reduce heat loss.

Dear Tom and Leslie: 

I have really drafty windows. The drafts are particularly bad when I sit in one chair that is near an east window. I am not ready to go for new windows and am wondering what my alternatives might be. Can you tell me how to fix my drafty windows?

Answer: 

Drafty windows are an annoyance you don't have to put up with. Drafty windows drive up your winter heatings bills. Here are some suggestions on how to end window drafts.

Drafty windows should be caulked between the window and the siding on the outside, and between the trim and the window on the inside. These are the most common areas that drafts slip through. Check for loose or missing weatherstripping, as that may be the source of drafts.

Drafty Window SolutionsIf the drafts are coming in between the window sash and the frame, you might consider caulking the window shut with a special temporary caulk that is designed to be removed in the spring.

DAP makes a product called SEAL-N-PEEL that fixes the drafty window and allows the caulk to be removed in spring. It goes on like regular caulk, but can easily be pealed off after it dries. As a precautionary safety measure, don't use caulk on any window that you rely on as an emergency fire exit.

Finally, you can add a cellular shade to block out window drafts. Cellular shades have a honeycombed design that provide an added layer of insulation between you and the cold, drafty window. Check out the new line of cellular shades from Levolor. These shades offer light and privacy control, energy efficiency, and safe and easy operation. They also come in many fashionable designs. Levolor will even send you free swatches so you can decide on colors from the actual product.

If drafty windows have you ready for window replacement, you can download our free guide to choosing and installing replacement windows.

Comments

Sun, 01/10/2010 - 12:38 — george (not verified)

noise & thermal windows

what type or kind of replacement windows do I need to reduce energy cost and eliminate noise from roosters (many)it keeps me awake , had to move to other side of house!!

Sun, 01/10/2010 - 13:24 — Tom Kraeutler

Replacement Windows

Wow...no one ever asked me how to keep out rooster noise before!

Generally speaking, a good quality, Energy Star-rated thermal pane window will do a pretty good job of reducing street (or farm life!) noises. You can buy windows that are specially designed for sound reduction but they are extremely expensive. Make sure that the new windows you buy qualify for the Federal Energy Tax Credits too, as that can save you up to about 30% of their cost.

Post new comment