How to Get Rid of Window Drafts
Windows let in sun and heat, but when the cold months come, they also bring about drafts that bring chill all over the place. Window drafts not only ruin your home's temperature, but can also affect your electric bills. If you're tired of dealing with the chilly atmosphere brought about by your windows, don't fret, because there are several ways to solve this.Close ItThis is perhaps the easiest and simplest tactic you can try. If there's too much cold air coming in, it's better if you keep the window closed. Check them: are you sure they're properly closed? Are the latches or the locks sealed? If your windows are in good condition, then this simple trick may be enough to solve your dilemma.If your window doesn't close properly, or if the latch is stuck, them you might need to do further improvement measures. For a window that won't close, see if you can adjust the hinges or the window frame itself. If the latch is stuck, replace it with a new one. These can be a lot of trouble, but you'll reap the benefits when your home stays warm.Caulk the Window ExteriorsOver time, the caulking around your window can become brittle and be easily damaged. When this happens, chinks of the caulking fall out, causing small holes that allow cold breezes to enter. If you think the window caulking is the one to be blamed, then you should take care of this. It's not very difficult.Remove dirt from the area to be caulked, scraping and removing the paint chips and old caulking. Get the caulking tube and use a utility knife to cut the tip by 1/4 inch. Slide the tube into the caulking gun. Run a bead of caulk in between the siding and window frame, at least 1/8 inch. Inspect the area and make sure you find holes or damages that allow external elements to get into the home interior. Use an ice cream stick to smooth the caulk you applied. Clean excess caulk build up. Let the caulk dry for a day. You can paint afterwards. Check and replace your window caulking even before the cold season begin. This will help you from rushing later on.Use Your Drapes The Right WayThick and high-quality drapes contribute greatly to proper window insulation. Hanging them properly isn't enough though. You also need to seal the draped completely. so they won't allow any cold air to enter. After you've hung the drapes, seal them tightly against the sides and bottom of your window frame. If it's the full-length type, seal it against the floor. You can do this by weighing it down with a sand-filled pouch or a chain. When fixing it against the seal, use a cord or metal clamping strip. Tacks and velcro strips are also useful, though they might ruin the drapes' fabric.When you buy drapes, make sure you choose high-quality ones over those that cost less. Cheap drapes made from thin fabrics that wear out easily will only cause trouble.Opt For Window Insulation CoveringsRegular window drapes and curtains will work all right for insulating your windows, but oftentimes, they aren't enough, especially if you live in a place with extreme weather conditions. What you should do is get insulated treated window coverings. Compared to regular covers, they provide better protection, sealing in warmth while preventing cold from entering. During the hot seasons, they can do the opposite, sealing out heat while allowing cold air to circulate inside. (More tips on how to insulate windows)Window insulation coverings come in different kinds. Here are three examples of insulated window coverings.
How to Get Rid of Window Drafts
Windows let in sun and heat, but when the cold months come, they also bring about drafts that bring chill all over the place. Window drafts not only ruin your home's temperature, but can also affect your electric bills. If you're tired of dealing with the chilly atmosphere brought about by your windows, don't fret, because there are several ways to solve this.Close ItThis is perhaps the easiest and simplest tactic you can try. If there's too much cold air coming in, it's better if you keep the window closed. Check them: are you sure they're properly closed? Are the latches or the locks sealed? If your windows are in good condition, then this simple trick may be enough to solve your dilemma.If your window doesn't close properly, or if the latch is stuck, them you might need to do further improvement measures. For a window that won't close, see if you can adjust the hinges or the window frame itself. If the latch is stuck, replace it with a new one. These can be a lot of trouble, but you'll reap the benefits when your home stays warm.Caulk the Window ExteriorsOver time, the caulking around your window can become brittle and be easily damaged. When this happens, chinks of the caulking fall out, causing small holes that allow cold breezes to enter. If you think the window caulking is the one to be blamed, then you should take care of this. It's not very difficult.
- Insulated curtains - These look like regular curtains, with various designs and patterns. Get the type which has insulated liners that locks in the temperature of a home and prevents heat from escaping.
- Quilted window shades - These are made with layers of different fabrics which create air spaces in the shades. They appear like a quilt and can be opened and closed easily.
- Insulated shades - These have air-filled units which are thermally insulated to help lock in air moisture. They're very easy to maintain and can be made from different kinds of materials.
- Windows aren't the only ones needing insulation. Your doors also allow in cold drafts, so insulate these properly.
- As much as possible, don't use your finger to wipe away the caulking. This can contain harmful chemicals that might hurt you.
- Always clean and maintain your windows. If they are poorly maintained, the greater the chance that they'll let in cold air.
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