As Michigan winters arrive, draft windows, consent, energy bills, soaring. Stealing these gaps will ensure comfort and saving heating cost. This guide will cover effective DIY method, tools that will be needed and tips to maximize your window efficiency.
Why fixing drafting windows matter?
Drafting windows allow warmer to escape making your furnace work harder to maintain the indoor temperature. This also waste energy and money. Addressing these issues helps create a more energy, efficient home, reducing heating cost, and improves comfort during Michigan’s winter.
Identify the source of the drafts
Use a candle, incense, stick, or a hand to detect air leaks along the windows edges, frames, and sashes. We have a pro tip: conduct test on a windy day to make drafts more noticeable and identify areas that need attention.
Clean the windows and frames
Dirt dust and debris can prevent proper ceiling. Use a mild cleaner to wipe down the entire window window surface and frame.
This can work clean services, allow, sealants, caulk, and weatherstripping to adhere better, ensuring a long lasting solution .
Seal gaps with caulk
Applying to gaps around window frames and walls. You silicone based caulk for flexibility and durability in the cold months.
- Cut tube at 45° angle for better precision.
- Run a smooth along the gap, pressing it gently.
- About 24 hours for the caulk to cure before you test its effectiveness.
Add weather-stripping to movable parts
Weather-stripping, sealed, gaps around sashes, providing flexibility for windows that still need to be open and closed.
- Measure the window dimension to determine the amount of whether shipping needed.
- Choose adhesive foam or rubber weatherstripping for easy application.
- Press firmly into place, ensuring the strip create a tight seal when the windows are closed.
Install insulated window film
Window film, created an additional barrier against draft and heat loss by insulating glass surfaces.
- Cut the film to fit your window dimensions, leave a small overlap.
- Use a double sided tape to secure the film into the frame.
- Heat with a hairdryer to shrink and smooth the film for a clean finish.
Use thermal curtains for extra protection
Thermal curtains, trap, warm air inside, preventing additional layers of insulation. For heavy duty fabrics, specifically designed for energy efficiency.
Bonus: they can also help produce outdoor noise, offering and quiet home environment during stance or Highwinds.
Replace or repair damaged window parts
Cracked panes, broken seals, or warped frames may require repairs beyond the sealing. Assess whether repairs or fully replacements are necessary.
When to replace: condensation appears between double pane windows, the seal is broken and needs professional repair.
Regularly maintain your windows
As a homeowner, check your seals, weatherstripping, and insulation periodically to ensure everything remains intact and is effective overtime.
Why these solutions work?
Each step target specific sources of heat loss, making your home more energy, efficient and comfortable. Combining these fixes drastically reduces your heating cost.
Michigan winters demand better windows
Draft two windows don’t just increase your energy bill. They compromise your homes comfort during Michigan’s toughest months. Ceiling leaks is a cost-effective, practical, and achievable with these DIY steps. Ready to enjoy warmer home lowering heating cost this winter. Start sealing your windows today.
