How to Fix a Drafty Window
Are you literally throwing money out the window of your home? If you have windows that allow cold air in and warm air out, you are indeed doing just that. With energy costs fluctuating, you need to ensure that your home is functioning as efficiently as possible. Sealing the windows with weather stripping will help block out unwanted cold in the winter and even keep the air-conditioning inside during the summer by blocking the tiny spaces in between your windows and the outside elements. Learning how to fix a drafty window requires a some effort, but you can save energy and money, since the cost of most do-it-yourself weather stripping can be recovered in energy savings in a year’s time.
Step 1. Choose material for weather stripping your windows. According to most experts, self-adhesive weather stripping is the best option. It is easy to install and is the most effective at keeping cold air out.
Step 2. Clean the surfaces of your window with soap and water to get rid of any dirt or grime. This will help the adhesive stick better and longer to the window.
Step 3. Cut the weather stripping material in lengths of approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) longer than the height of your window sash. This process is called “sealing the channel.”
Step 4. Place 1 end of the window strip behind the window sash. Repeat this until you have covered the upper and lower sash channels.
Step 5. Peel the tape from the back of the adhesive, and press it firmly into place behind the window sash.
Step 6. Measure the length of the horizontal part of the window where it meets the ledge, and cut a section of the weather stripping to match that length.
Step 7. Peel the tape from the back of the adhesive, and press it firmly into place along the ledge.
Step 8. Inspect the window thoroughly, and look for any gaps in the weather stripping. Pay attention to the top of the upper sash, the vertical portion of the window frame that make up the windows sides, and the bottom of the lower sash and sill. Cut and place weather stripping on any areas that are not covered.
Step 9. Measure the outside perimeter of the window, and cut 4 strips that match the length of each side. Refer to your window manufacturer’s installation guide for exact instructions on how to apply. If you do not have these instructions, many can be found online.
Step 10. Remove the adhesive tape, and again press the weather stripping firmly into place along the outside perimeter of the window.
Tips
- Weather stripping can continue to provide benefit in warmer seasons. Just as hot air escapes in the winter months, cold air escapes through the same places in the summer. Leave the weather stripping in place to help you save energy and money year-round.
