As the seasons change and the temperature drops, you might begin to notice a chilly breeze inside your home, even when all the doors and windows are tightly shut. Drafty windows are a common culprit for heat loss, making your living space uncomfortable and driving up your utility bills. Fortunately, sealing these drafts is a simple, budget-friendly home repair project that anyone can tackle in a single afternoon.
Before you begin sealing, you need to locate the exact source of the drafts. A classic and highly effective method is the candle test. On a windy day, light a candle and hold it near your window frames, moving it slowly around the edges.
If the flame flickers or smoke wafts horizontally, you have found an air leak. Mark these spots with a small piece of painter tape so you know exactly where to focus your efforts. For moveable parts of the window, weatherstripping is the ideal solution.
Adhesive foam tape is incredibly easy to use, inexpensive, and available at any local hardware store. Simply clean the window frame with warm, soapy water to remove dust and grime, then let it dry completely. Peel the backing off the foam and press it firmly along the tracks where the window sash meets the frame.
This creates a tight seal when the window is closed while still allowing you to open it easily when warm weather returns. If you find gaps where the window frame meets the exterior or interior wall, silicone caulk is the appropriate choice. Caulk is perfect for sealing stationary joints.
Start by scraping away any old, peeling caulk with a putty knife, then wipe the area clean. Cut the nozzle of your caulk tube at a forty-five-degree angle to control the flow. Apply a smooth, continuous bead along the gap, and smooth it out with a damp finger or a specialized caulking tool for a clean finish.
By taking just an hour or two to seal your windows, you will create a much more comfortable indoor environment. Not only will your home stay warmer during the coldest months of the year, but your heating system will not have to work nearly as hard. This simple fix is an excellent way to lower your energy bills while boosting your home comfort.