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6 Quick Fixes for Eliminating Drafty Windows

Are your windows letting in more than just sunlight? If you’ve noticed drafts, chilly air, or rising energy bills during…
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Jacob Wadding

Are your windows letting in more than just sunlight? If you’ve noticed drafts, chilly air, or rising energy bills during the colder months, your windows might be the culprits. But don’t worry; we’ve got you covered with these quick and easy fixes to help you enjoy a cozier and more energy-efficient home. Say goodbye to those pesky drafts! 

Inside this blog

  • The importance of fixing drafty windows
  • 6 quick fixes to get rid of drafty windows in your home
  • Pros + cons, & how to do each quick fix

Keep reading to learn how to tackle drafty windows like a real pro and ensure you can relax in your home, wind-free!

Why Fix Drafty Windows? 🤔

Drafty windows are more than just an annoyance; they can have a significant impact on your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Here’s why addressing this issue is essential:

  • Comfort: Drafts make your home feel colder and less comfortable.
  • Energy Efficiency: Drafty windows can increase your heating bills.
  • Environmental Impact: Reducing drafts helps lower your carbon footprint.
  • Home Maintenance: Fixing drafts can prevent further window damage.

Now, let’s dive into the six quick fixes to eliminate those drafty windows and improve your home’s overall comfort.

1. Caulking and Weatherstripping 

window-caulking

One of the most cost-effective solutions for drafty windows is caulking and weatherstripping. It involves sealing gaps and cracks around your window frames to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. Caulking is typically used for stationary components, while weatherstripping is best for moving parts like window sashes.

Pros ✔️

  • Affordable and easy to DIY.
  • Effective in sealing gaps.
  • Long-lasting solution.

Cons ✖️

  • May require periodic maintenance.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Inspect your windows for visible gaps and cracks.
  2. Clean the area to remove dirt and debris.
  3. Apply caulk or adhesive-backed weatherstripping to the gaps.
  4. Press firmly to ensure a tight seal.

2. Window Film 

Window film is a thin, transparent sheet that can be applied to your window glass. It provides an additional layer of insulation and helps to reduce drafts. Some window films also have UV-blocking properties, which can protect your furniture and flooring from fading due to sun exposure.

Pros ✔️

  • Affordable and easy to install.
  • Improves insulation.
  • Reduces UV rays.

Cons ✖️

  • May affect visibility.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Clean the window glass thoroughly.
  2. Measure and cut the window film to size.
  3. Wet the glass with soapy water.
  4. Apply the film and smooth out any bubbles.

3. Window Insulation Kits 

Window insulation kits come with a plastic shrink film that you apply to your window frames. Using a hairdryer, you shrink the film to create a clear, airtight barrier that helps prevent drafts. These kits are affordable and can be effective at reducing heat loss.

Pros ✔️

  • Inexpensive and easy to install.
  • Provides a clear, removable barrier.
  • Improves insulation.

Cons ✖️

  • Temporary solution.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Measure and cut the film to fit your window.
  2. Apply double-sided tape to the window frame.
  3. Attach the film and use a hairdryer to shrink it.

4. Draft Stoppers or Door Snakes 

draft-snake-by-door

Draft stoppers, also known as door snakes, are handy for sealing the gaps under doors. While not a solution for window drafts, they can help improve overall insulation in your home. These draft stoppers are available in various designs and can add a touch of decor to your space.

Pros ✔️

  • Affordable and easy to use.
  • Effective at sealing gaps under doors.
  • Can be decorative.

Cons ✖️

  • Limited to door drafts.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Place the draft stopper at the bottom of the door.
  2. Ensure it fits snugly against the door’s surface.
  3. Adjust as needed to prevent drafts.

5. Heavy Curtains or Drapes 

Installing heavy curtains or drapes can serve a dual purpose: they can enhance insulation and add a touch of style to your windows. These curtains create an additional barrier between your home and the outside, helping to keep warm air in and cold air out.

Pros ✔️

  • Enhances insulation.
  • Adds aesthetic appeal.
  • Can block out light.

Cons ✖️

  • May limit natural light when closed.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Measure your window’s dimensions.
  2. Choose curtains with thermal or blackout lining.
  3. Install a curtain rod or track.
  4. Hang the curtains and ensure they cover the window fully when closed.

6. Replace or Repair Damaged Seals and Hardware 

Sometimes, drafts are caused by damaged or deteriorated window seals or hardware. In such cases, the best fix is to replace or repair the affected components. This ensures that your windows remain both airtight and functional.

Pros ✔️

  • Fixes the root cause of drafts.
  • Restores window functionality.
  • May improve security.

Cons ✖️

  • Can be more expensive than other solutions.

How to Do It  ⚒️

  1. Identify the damaged or worn-out seals or hardware.
  2. Purchase replacement parts or consult a professional.
  3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.

Bonus Tip: Schedule Professional Inspection & Maintenance

While the above fixes are suitable for addressing minor drafts, it’s essential to have your windows professionally inspected and maintained regularly. A trained eye can identify underlying issues that may require more extensive repairs or window replacement.

Keep Your Home Draft-Free!

Don’t let a drafty window disrupt your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. With these quick fixes, you can enjoy a cozier, warmer living space during the colder months and reduce your heating bills. Plus, these solutions are affordable and easy to implement, so you can start enjoying a draft-free home in no time. Here’s to a snug and cozy home! 

Get in Touch with our expert team at Arch Exteriors today. Experience customized exterior options for any budget and lifetime warranties on all products. We’re excited to chat about your next project!

About the Author
Your home is probably the most expensive thing you own. When you hire somebody to make improvements, you want high-quality work. In addition, you hope they’ll take the same care you would. You want someone with a good reputation, legitimate credentials, well established, using quality materials, and who charges a fair price. For over 11 years, I have worked hard to provide all of those benefits to my clients. One of the major reasons we have been able to do that is our ability to keep highly qualified personnel. Our workers are well trained, properly motivated, and managed professionally. I make certain that I convey measurable systems and procedures that our team understands and can readily follow.

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