Are you tired of the chilly draft seeping through your windows and doors? Drafty windows and doors can make your home uncomfortable and lead to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills. Here are some easy-to-follow solutions on how to fix drafty windows and doors, including DIY methods and professional solutions.
Understanding Drafty Windows and Doors
These refer to openings that allow unwanted air infiltration into your home. These gaps or cracks can occur due to various reasons, such as poor installation, aging and wear, or insufficient weatherstripping. When left unaddressed, drafty windows and doors can result in uncomfortable drafts, reduced indoor comfort, and increased energy consumption.
Causes and Negative Impact on Energy Efficiency
Poor Installation: Improperly installed windows and doors can leave gaps and spaces, allowing outside air to enter your home while allowing conditioned air to escape. This can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency, as your heating and cooling systems work harder to compensate for the temperature loss or gain.
Aging and Wear: Over time, the seals around windows and doors can deteriorate, leading to gaps and cracks. This compromises your home’s insulation and can result in drafts that affect both comfort and energy efficiency.
Insufficient Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping plays a vital role in sealing gaps between moving parts of windows and doors. Worn-out or improperly installed weatherstripping can create avenues for air infiltration, leading to drafts and energy loss.
Solutions
Window Caulking: Window caulking is a simple and cost-effective DIY solution that helps seal gaps and cracks around windows. Use a high-quality silicone or latex caulk to fill in visible openings. Before applying the caulk, ensure the area is clean and dry. Once applied, smooth it out with a caulk finishing tool for a neat finish.
Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping is an effective method to seal gaps around windows and doors. Self-adhesive weatherstrips made of foam, rubber, or vinyl can be easily applied to the edges of windows and doors. Ensure proper alignment and make sure the weatherstripping doesn’t interfere with the opening and closing of windows and doors.
Door Sweeps: Installing door sweeps is an excellent solution to address drafts at the bottom of doors. Door sweeps are strips of material attached to the bottom of the door, sealing the gap between the door and the floor. Choose adhesive or adjustable door sweeps with brushes or fins based on your needs.
Cost-Effective Alternatives
If you’re looking for budget-friendly alternatives, consider these options:
- Instead of purchasing specialized caulking products, you can opt for removable or temporary caulking products that provide a seal but can be easily removed when needed.
- In place of specialized weatherstripping, adhesive-backed foam tape or rolled-up towels can temporarily seal gaps around windows and doors.
- Instead of installing a new door sweep, you can attach a draft stopper or use a rolled-up towel at the bottom of the door to block drafts temporarily.
Is it time to replace your drafty windows and doors? Don’t wait! Contact Albern Windows & Doors today for a free consultation and take the first step towards a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. We offer window & door installation services in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and surrounding areas.
