Draft can mean many things, but when talking about windows, it means there's a type of leak in your window. However, unlike roof leaks where water is the main problem, drafts are mostly about outdoor air passing through small gaps found in the window.
Windows get drafty when air leaks through openings around the window. The leaks can sneak through caulk cracks, caulk gaps, or gaps behind the trim. Air leaks can start to appear over time as a house settles. You can also find air leaks in different parts of your house, like exterior doors and other openings.
Install Draft Stoppers: Place draft stoppers or door snakes at the bottom of windows to block cold air from entering. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Use caulk to fill in any cracks or gaps around window frames, especially if you notice air leaks. Apply Reflective Window Film: Consider applying reflective film to the glass.
Cold air comes through windows if there's an issue with the window frame, the locking mechanisms, the hardware, the weatherstripping, or the caulking. Gaps can form between the window frame and the wall if the windows aren't installed properly or as a result of a shifting foundation.
Sometimes installers leave gaps around the frame or don't use enough insulation. In other cases, they might install windows that are slightly too small for the opening. These mistakes might not be obvious right away, but they eventually lead to noticeable drafts.
For windows that open, buy draught-proofing strips to stick around the window frame and fill the gap between the window and the frame. There are two types of draught-proofing strips: Self-adhesive foam strips, which are cheap and easy to install, but may not last long.
It happens because of cracks, failed seals, and poor insulation. If you're trying to fix this problem by putting bubble wrap on windows, you can do better.
The most frequent cause of a drafty home is improper air sealing and leaks from your doors and windows, says Josh Lake, co-founder at Elephant Energy. “This is especially true in older homes where windows and doors can warp, creating gaps that allow cold air to leak in,” he says.
Weatherstripping is one of the easiest and least expensive ways for you to fix drafty windows. You can use different types of weatherstripping like felt strips, foam tape or press-on vinyl to fill gaps and keep out the cold. Weatherstripping will also insulate windows to keep hot air out in the summer.
A drafty window costs $100 to $400 to repair. Drafty windows may need new weatherstripping, caulk, or insulation, or they may need to be reglazed.
Drafts, however, are caused by accidental gaps. If you feel cold air coming in, then warm air is certainly escaping a simple way to check for drafts is to light a candle and move it around the frames of windows and doors. Where the flame flickers most is where you have a draft.
Sealing these gaps with rope caulk, foam backer rods, removable caulk, or other methods can make a noticeable difference in your home's warmth and efficiency.
Feeling the wind through your window often points to damaged seals, warped frames, or outdated glazing. Identifying the root cause allows you to take effective action, whether repairing seals, upgrading windows, or improving maintenance.
Install weatherstripping or tape
You can attempt to draft seal a window using self-adhesive weather strips and tape. Weatherstrips can be installed easily, whilst tape can be cut to size and fitted over any areas where there are draughts.
How to find draughts. Draughts come into your house through gaps and cracks. First, look for any obvious gaps – visible light under and around doors and windows is a good clue. Listen for rattles and whistling noises, especially during high winds.
Cold air coming through windows can be normal. However, we expect windows to seal properly. Meaning, they should seal without any gaps or openings. If you suspect that you have air coming through your windows, check for obvious loose pins or panels in the window.
Modern energy-efficient windows use double or triple-pane glass, which includes insulating gas between the panes. If the seals between the glass panes have broken over time, the gas can escape, and the window can quickly become drafty.