Quick Guide to Weatherproofing Windows Year-Round

Did you know that the average American pays $2000 for home energy costs per year?

On average, more than half of a household’s annual energy consumption comes from two end uses heating and air conditioning.

Depending on the time of year, when heat or cold air escapes your home, you are losing money.

Weatherproofing windows is one effective way to reduce costs associated with heat loss and air leakage.

For example, replacing old weatherstripping around windows can yield up to 10 percent savings on your heating costs. And you can find many other cheap and easy DIY window projects to help you achieve perfect window insulation and cut energy expenses year-round.

If you feel a draft, even in the presence of a closed window, read on for a guide to weatherproofing windows. Regardless of the season, these tips will optimize your home’s energy efficiency.

Quick and Easy Steps for Weatherproofing Windows

Some people put off weatherproofing windows because they think they may not be up to the task. However, there are many things you can do to weatherproof windows that require little craftsmanship.

Heavy drapes, for example, are a great way to block airflow. Some curtains feature an insulating liner for more effective draft reduction.

Another cheap and fast step is to purchase a window snake. This is simply a fabric tube filled with sand. All you have to do is place the snake on the window sill to block airflow coming from underneath the window.

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Low-Effort Window Projects

One cheap and easy way to weatherproof your windows is to use sealant foam. Applied in the same fashion as caulk, use it generously around the perimeter of the interior window.

Some people prefer to use something less messy and easily removable. The solution is vinyl or rubber weather stripping material.

Weather strips often have adhesive on the back for easy application. If you prefer a different method to create a barrier between your window and the outside and prevent heat transfer, condensation, and mildew growth, add staples every 6 inches to the window frame. After use, the weatherstrip compresses and forms an airtight seal around the window.

Long-Term Weatherproofing Options

In terms of weatherproofing durability, you get what you pay for. If you take a cheap and straightforward approach, it will likely only last for a while and fail to prevent energy loss.

Weatherproof stripping, for instance, needs to be replaced often due to the degradation of the rubber. Vinyl gaskets are typically removed after the winter is over.

Some people prefer to take permanent action. Long-term options with good thermal properties include shades, energy-efficient windows, or insulating shutters.

Not only do shades look great, but they also contain side pockets called cells. These cells trap air in the pockets and prevent it from flowing inside, increasing the airtightness of windows.

Another stylish option is insulating shutters. Because they can be closed, shutters, provide complete blockage of airflow into the home. They can also be opened to allow natural light in the house during better weather.

The most expensive course of action is to invest in energy-efficient weather-seal windows. This step, however, yields the best results and eliminates any drafts. You can measure the effectiveness of the windows by looking at their energy performance rating.

Many people do not realize the impact of weatherproofing drafty windows until they receive their first colossal electricity or heating bill. Be one step ahead of the weather and weatherproof the windows in your home.

Installing rubber weatherstripping or investing in shutters pays off in the long run.

What happens when weatherproofing isn’t working?

If you are still feeling drafts or your energy costs continue to climb, filling in the gaps around windows may not be enough and you might need to consider buying new windows.

Request an in-home quote, and our professionals can inspect your windows to see if they require replacement.

Some companies will try to convince you to change all your windows, but that is not always necessary.

It could be that you just need to replace one window.

Get a free home quote from a local provider. It doesn’t hurt to get multiple opinions and quotes.

If you are in Chicago, Illinois, and need a free home consultation, contact Chicago Window Guys.

Editors Note: This article was originally published on June 27, 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.