Drafty Windows? How To Keep Cold Air Out
As we rolled through the depths of winter weather, you will have noticed by now if your windows need some love. Windows are more than just a pleasant view and the means to bring in some sunshine, they also allow for fresh air to carry away the heat in the summer and let out the smell of that casserole that burned in the oven last night.
What we need to keep in mind is that windows are also the perfect place for drafts to come through on those coldest of days, lowering the temperature in your home and raising the heating bill to unprecedented heights. The following are some things to keep in mind when it comes to maintaining your windows, and some easy fixes to keep them in tip top shape.
Single Pane VS Double Pane Glass
Many century homes will have single pane glass windows installed that have withstood the test of time in varying conditions. While these windows can be beautiful and create an aesthetic that celebrates the home’s origins, they also come at the cost of significant heat or cool air loss in cold or hot climates, higher energy bill, and much lower noise reduction.
Double pane glass window installation can help to solve these issues and provide stronger security for your home. Many companies provide antique looking double or even triple-pane windows that will match the aesthetic of your home. If you are unable to find something to your liking, you can order custom windows to fit the fixtures in your home.
Storm Windows
An option some might consider, particularly in an older home, would be storm windows. A storm window can be installed on either the interior or the exterior. While this option is not as efficient as a completely new installation or a double pane or triple pane window, it is an option that can be considered to preserve the integrity of the current installation while ensuring higher energy efficiency.
A storm window is an additional window placed either on the interior of the existing window or the exterior, with a separation between the two. This option does require additional maintenance as it will allow for moisture to gather between the glass as well as dust and grime if there are any gaps in the existing frame. Storm windows can be installed in a variety of styles and materials.
Window Installation DIY
Installing windows may not seem like a difficult project for the DIY handy-woman or handy-man, however the entire process is not as cut and dry. Inspections frequently find windows installed by homeowners that have been installed upside down, inside out, or lacking necessary features to be both secure and up to standards.
Not all existing window frames will be square, particularly if they are older homes. Warping can, and likely will, occur over time. This will be something to watch out for and correct before installing your new windows.
Another assumption that can be quite costly is that windows that look similar or are in the same space will have the same measurements. This is absolutely not the case. Every window must be measured individually. Measurements should include the space between the window edging, bracing the glass pane, and the frame itself.
Window installation requires proper insulation and flashing to ensure a proper seal between the wall, frame, and window. The most expensive and highest rated window will not live up to its price or rating if not installed properly. For this reason, it is always best to hire a certified contractor to ensure the best results possible.
Easy Insulation Tips and Tricks
Window technology has come a long way in the last ten to twenty years. Even windows installed before the last decade can show signs of wear allowing the cold air in during the winter or out during the summer.
Weatherstripping is a type of product that can be purchased at any hardware store. It is an adhesive product that can be attached to door or window frames to reduce or eliminate gaps that allow air to flow through when it should be sealed. Install weatherstripping to a clean and product-free surface, following the instructions on the packages. Weatherstripping should be checked seasonally to monitor for wear and tear. As this product is easily replaceable and affordable, maintenance is highly manageable.
Many older window wood frames may have cracks or separation between the framing and the glass. If replacing the window is not currently an option, a quick and easy way to Band-Aid the issue is with wood putty. After removing the dried and cracked putty, simply apply a new layer to the clean surface and allow it to dry. This option requires regular maintenance as the putty develops cracks over time. Be careful not to allow build up of the product. Instead, when maintenance is required, remove the old product as much as possible before applying a new layer to the clean surface.
A final option involves a film window insulation kit that can be purchased from your local hardware store. This is a function over fashion option that can help to prevent heat escaping through windows and cold air entering.