Nothing lasts forever, not even the furniture that you have installed in your dream house. Especially in winter when it’s chilling to the bones, draughty windows are the last thing that you would want. As they allow the super cold wind to come indoors and the heat from your house to escape.
However, you can not immediately get a carpenter to fix it. So, what can you do? Dont worry; we are here to help you out. In this article, we are going to discuss 5 hacks that can help you fix Draughty windows and doors. These hacks are quite easy to do, and in this cold weather, they can be life saviors.
1. Install interior storm windows
This is one of the most reliable hacks that you can do. As installing interior storm windows are quite easy to install and will fix right on top of your existing windows so there are no gaps through which the wind can pass through. You can do this yourself very easily, and you dont need any professional for this.
Moreover, this will last you for a long period of time and will not affect the way your windows look from the outside. Storm windows seal the windows tightly Additionally, these windows also help in improving the insulation and will protect you from the cold breezes.
And the best part is that the windows do not damage your windows and don’t affect the look of your windows. Moreover, these storm windows are so much more cost-effective as compared to the complete replacement of the old draught windows.
2. Use Weatherstripping
This is an important thing to do as winter starts. This will help keep the windows intact, covering any gaps between the locks and the window. Using a weatherstrip will make sure there is no air leaking through the gaps between the windows. Moreover, it is very easy to do. Here are a few tips that you can do to make your windows more efficient:
- Open the windows and make sure that the locks are installed properly and if you have larger windows. You can install two locks on the edge rather than just one lock in the center. This will help in weatherstripping.
- Once the locks are installed and secured properly, now you can use the weatherstripping on the top edge of your windows.
- After applying the weatherstrip, you need to lock the door as tightly as possible. This way, you can get rid of draughty windows and make sure there are no air gaps in your windows.
This is a very crucial step while waterproofing your house that most people skip. Moreover, this is a very quick and affordable hack that you can do yourself easily.
3. Use a film or bubble wrap
If you are enjoying a cozy evening with your friends and suddenly you feel a cold breeze coming indoors. At this time, this quick fix can be a savior because you dont need any professional equipment, and you fix droughty windows within a few minutes.
All you need to do is just cover the gaps between the windows with an insulated film or bubble wrap this will make an airtight chamber. Moreover, you can fix the film in place with double-sided tape.
However, this is not a permanent solution but can be a quick fix in time of need. This hack just has one drawback the double-sided tape can leave marks or sticky residue while removing, so be careful with that.
4. Reglaze old window Panels
Glazing can help in creating a weatherproof seal and will add life to your old windows. This is a cheaper alternative, but you need to keep checking the windows to see if glazing is required or not.
However, if you see minute cracks, you can glaze them with the help of a small knife or blade that can get into the crack. It’s easy to do, and you can do it yourself by following these simple steps.
- Remove the sash of the window.
- Now scrape away the old glaze also remove the old, thin pieces of wood.
- You can easily chip off the old glaze with the help of a knife.
- If you have a heat gun, you can also use it.
- Replace the glass if needed, and reglaze.
5. Use Thicker Curtains
Another very cheap and effective way to keep your indoors insulated is by using thicker curtains. However, this is not a permanent solution. It will help you in case of emergency as air will not be able to enter directly into your room.
If you cannot immediately get the windows replaced, by doing this hack, you can at least buy yourself some extra time. Thicker curtains also provide much more insulation indoors and will protect you from the air coming through the windows.
Causes of Draughty Windows
If you want to fix an issue, you need to understand the causes of it as well. This will help to increase the life of your windows. So, let us get into the causes and factors that make the doors and windows Draughty.
Improper installation: This can be a major factor that can make the windows draughty or insufficient. So make sure everything is done properly while installing the windows in the first place.
Issues with the seal of the window: Maximum people who have the issue of draughty windows complain about the seal of the window. However, if the window is not sealed properly, it will lead to air gaps, allowing the chilly winds to enter indoors.
Moreover, the issue with the seal can be because of poor installation or manufacturing defects or due to exposure to extreme weather conditions. It might be because the windows are just old, and it’s time to repair or replace them.
The Bottom Line
Now that you know the causes and the quick fix that can help you repair the draughty windows and doors. I hope now you can enjoy cozy and comfortable evenings with your family without being bothered by the windy conditions outside.