Poorly sealed windows and doors can make your home uncomfortable and inefficient. With energy costs rising, conserving water, getting more efficient appliances, and buying energy efficient lightbulbs isn’t enough. Air leakage can cause your heating and cooling system to work harder and significantly increase your energy bills. In the summer, it can lead to excessive moisture and, in the winter, can make your home very dry.
Whether you need new window installation or aren’t ready to remodel, you can determine if your windows are properly sealed or whether they currently need to be.
How Do I Know If My Windows Are Sealed Properly?
Inspect your window frames, on the inside and outside, to see if there are gaps air can pass through. While you’re at it, look in places where siding meets and near door frames, vents, outlets, and entry points for cable and phone lines. Also check where any wires, pipes, and fireplace flues enter your home for possible leak points.
To test your windows, wait until a cool, windy day. Shut every window, door, or opening into your house so it is sealed (or as much so as possible). Then turn on whatever exhaust fans you have. The next step is the most important, but first turn off any combustible appliance. Light an incense stick and bring it to each window, door, or where a leak may be. If there’s a draft, you will see the smoke blow toward it or waver.
Why Should Windows Be Sealed?
The top reasons to ensure your windows are sealed are:
- Improved Energy Efficiency: With properly sealed windows, your heating and cooling system can regulate the temperature of your home. Leaky windows and doors increase the cost of maintenance. They can also strain HVAC systems to the point more frequent repairs and replacements will be needed.
- Longer-Lasting Windows and Doors: Bad sealing not only contributes to air leakage. It also allows moisture and mold to enter. Moisture buildup can cause your window or door to warp, and then lose its shape and integrity. The deterioration can be slowed down with proper sealing.
- Fewer Unwanted Guests: Nature will find a way into your home any way it can. Pests such as ants, spiders, mosquitos, and centipedes can easily get in through unsealed windows. Pollen and other allergens can easily get in too, contributing to indoor allergies.
- Soundproofing: A strong, solid seal can block street noise. Otherwise, sound waves can easily pass through cracks and crevasses, making your home feel much less private.
How to Seal Leaky Windows
Air leaks should be sealed as soon as they are found. You can successfully seal windows and doors with caulking around the edges and wherever there are any cracks along the frame. Apply weather stripping around them as well. When doing so, make sure the surface is clean and dry, and that it is not too cold. The right type of weather stripping can last for years and keep your windows and doors sealed.
Schedule Installation with Window World of Boston
When you need window or door installation, contact Window World of Boston at our Pembroke and Woburn locations. Our installation services are of the highest quality. In addition, we offer unbeatable financing options including an exclusive credit card program and access to home improvement loans. We can even ensure the comfort of your home during wintertime improvements. To ensure your door and window installation goes well, contact us today for a free estimate and to schedule an appointment.
