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Sealing drafty windows and doors

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It may be time because sealing drafty windows and doors can improve energy efficiency, enhance comfort, and reduce heating or cooling costs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you seal them effectively:

 

Identify Drafts


Focus on problem areas: Common culprits include gaps around frames, sashes, and thresholds.

Inspect for leaks:

  • Close windows and doors and check for light peeking through the edges.

  • Use the back of your hand around windows and doors, it senses the draft better than your palm. 

  • Use a lit candle or incense stick to detect air movement—flames or smoke will flicker near drafts.

 

Gather Materials and tools

You’ll need:

  • Weatherstripping: For movable parts like sashes and doors.

  • Caulk: For stationary parts like frames or cracks.

  • Door sweeps: For the bottom of doors.

  • Window insulation kits: These include plastic film to cover entire window panes.

  • Foam sealant: For larger gaps and holes.

  • Backer rod: for larger holes or gaps.

  • Tools: Caulking gun, utility knife, scissors, measuring tape.

 

Apply Seals


For Windows:

  1. Weatherstripping:

    Use adhesive foam or V-strip weatherstripping to seal movable parts of the window.

    Apply along the top, bottom, and sides where the sashes meet.

  2. Caulking:

    • Clean and dry the edges before applying caulk.

    • Seal gaps between the frame and wall with quality silicone or acrylic latex caulk.

  3. Window Film (Optional for old windows):

    • Apply clear plastic insulation film over the entire window. Use a hairdryer to shrink and tighten it.

For Doors:

  1. Weatherstripping:

    • Apply foam or rubber weatherstripping along the sides and top of the doorframe.

  2. Door Sweep:

    • Install a door sweep or draft stopper along the bottom edge of the door.

  3. Caulking:

    • Seal gaps around the door frame with caulk.

 

Address Large Gaps or Cracks

  • Use expanding foam sealant for larger cracks in walls or gaps around windows/doors that weatherstripping and caulk cannot address. Use backer rod for even larger cracks with caulking over backer rod.

 

Test the Results

  • Re-check for drafts using the candle or smoke test.

  • Adjust or reinforce seals as necessary.

 

Additional Tips

  • Replace worn-out weatherstripping or door sweeps periodically.

  • Check for drafts seasonally, as materials can shrink or degrade over time.

  • Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors if drafts persist.

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