Windows help improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency, but they are also prone to issues that can seriously hamper their performance. When the seals around your windows have been compromised, for example, they allow drafts to leak into your home, making indoor temperature inconsistent. This, in turn, can lead to significant energy loss. But what can cause drafty windows, and how do you deal with the problem?
We’ve mentioned that broken seals can result in drafty windows. This problem is more prevalent in older windows because their glazing putty may have already grown brittle and fallen away. If your existing units are fairly new, sloppy caulking and installation may be the culprit. Some window materials are also susceptible to this issue. Wood double hung windows tend to shrink with age and wear, causing them to let in cold air while vinyl or aluminum windows may have worn-out gaskets and weatherstripping.
You’ll know your home has drafty windows when their glass rattles on windy days, or you’ve noticed your utility bills are higher than expected for th3 season. Investing in quality replacement windows can take care of the problem, but until spring comes around (when a permanent fix is more manageable), you can try some temporary solutions, such as:
1. Adding plastic weatherstripping along the side of window sashes
2. Using rope caulk to fill the gap between the window frames and the opening
3. Applying shrink film around the gaps and heating it with a hair dryer to seal off drafts
4. Filling the gap with clear nail polish, which stabilizes the rattling glass once it hardens
Again, these are short-term fixes. If your windows are already worn, rotten and perpetually drafty, the smarter, long-lasting solution is window replacement. Renewal by Andersen® of San Francisco can help you with this. Our exceptional replacement windows are made of exclusive Fibrex® material, which offers wood’s strength and insulating properties, and combines them with vinyl’s low-maintenance features. It doesn’t crack, pit, corrode or rot – and keeps an airtight seal that effectively prevents drafts and energy loss. With our professional installation team, you’re always sure the work will be completed perfectly right the first time as well. This means every window is sealed properly for superior energy performance.
When in need of a top-tier solution for drafty windows, turn only to Renewal by Andersen of San Francisco. We proudly serve Hayward and San Francisco, CA, plus the surrounding areas. Call us today at (866) 609-5033, or fill out this contact form to schedule your consultation.
