Drafty windows drive up heating costs and are also incredibly uncomfortable. Especially during the cold winter months, you quickly notice when cold air penetrates into the living spaces.
Many accept the problem and do not know that it can be remedied relatively quickly with simple means. Sealing saves energy and at the same time increases living comfort. Leaky windows can be identified relatively quickly based on a few points. If there are noticeable drafts, the panes fog up, or light even shines through small gaps between the frame and the sash, these are clear signs that something is wrong with the windows. Even if such problems are not noticeable, increased energy consumption can indicate that heat is escaping unintentionally. If you are not sure, you can do a simple test and hold a candle or a lighter in front of the suspicious window. If the flame flickers, it is proof that a draft is entering.
What are the causes of the leaks?
Over the years, it is hardly avoidable that the frames warp or the fittings loosen. Especially when windows are used frequently, the locking mechanisms eventually wear out and the sash no longer fits as tightly as it once did. Much less often, the incorrect storage of wooden windows before installation is the reason for the lack of tightness.
Sealing windows – a small measure with a big impact
As soon as leaky windows are discovered, there should be no hesitation. Even a simple seal with a self-adhesive foam or rubber seal normally reduces heat loss significantly. The high-quality sealing materials are available in various thicknesses, and even a layperson can attach the easy-to-work-with material in just a few steps. Simple instructions and practical tips for anyone who wants to seal windows can be found in abundance on the internet.
The best alternative solutions and practical maintenance tips
In rare cases, renewing the seals is not enough. This is the case if the entire window sash is warped or a fitting is broken. In such a case, professional adjustment is required. For wooden windows, it is also recommended to paint or glaze them regularly to protect the material from deformation and moisture. For plastic windows, special care products are used at regular intervals to ensure that the sealants remain supple.
If you succeed in sealing your beautiful windows, it not only puts an end to the draft, it also noticeably lowers heating requirements. This has a positive effect on the energy balance at the end of the year and at the same time protects the environment. Anyone planning to improve the energy efficiency of their home anyway should also consider other insulation measures in addition to sealing. Possibilities include, for example, effective thermal insulation glazing or insulated roller shutter boxes.
A small repair with a big impact
A leaky window is by no means a reason to panic. Rather, it should be the motivation to deal more intensively with the preservation of the value of your own four walls. The effort of sealing is manageable, and with a few simple steps and the right care, the indoor climate can be noticeably improved. This way, the cozy warmth stays inside in winter.
