Before taking out a loan or just submitting to uncomfortable living conditions and sky-reaching heating bills -- that leaky, frosty windows can cause -- first consider your window improvement options.
Seal air leaks
Sealing air leaks around windows reduces drafts that could harm the window frame when moist air passes through and prevents valuable heated air from escaping to the outdoors. Check for air leaks on a cool, window day with an incense stick or thin piece of plastic.
Air sealants, like caulking and weather strip, can be purchased at the local hardware store.
- Apply caulking to the fixed joints of the window – the part that doesn’t move. Caulk around the window trim, at the angled joints of the trim, and between the trim and the frame. Choose a quality caulking compound that is intended for indoor use and is paintable.
- Apply weather stripping to the operable area of the window -- the part that does move, which is the sash. Plastic V-type weather strip is a good choice for most windows. Many weather strip materials are available for different purposes, but an experienced sales representative should help you select the right product for the job.
Improve thermal performance
Increasing the window's thermal performance allows the glazing (pane) to become better at reducing noise, standing the cold without condensing and freezing, and blocking heated air from flowing to the cold outdoors.
Most thermal improving options allow you to remove the temporary glazing.
- Heat-shrink film is a thin plastic sheet that adheres to the window by use of a hair blower. Use removable caulking to seal the film’s sides to the window frame. The application process can be tricky and the heat-shrink must be reapplied each year, but the film is affordable and convenient - available at the hardware store.
- Storm windows are custom-built to match window size and style. Interior applications are more common than exterior ones, which conveniently attach directly to the window frame and may be removed for natural ventilation. Different interior systems are available, but one highly effective option is clear rigid acrylic sheets with snap-on magnetic seals. They are very durable, easy to reattach and provide an effective seal.
Final thoughts
If you have a window with a broken seal, where condensation forms between the panes, the entire unit must be replaced to fix the problem.
If your windows badly need replacing, start with those that will address your immediate concerns. If heat loss is your main issue, upgrade north-facing windows or those that are subject to direct winds. If heat gain is most important, first replace your west-facing windows.
Related Articles by Heidi Wagg:
"Solutions to Frosty Window Panes", "Renovate Your Home for Optimal Energy Efficiency"
Heidi Wagg - For eight years, Heidi had the opportunity of working alongside skilled engineers and business professionals at an energy management ...
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