The area around a window is often the coldest spot in any room. Even with good double glazing, small, often imperceptible draughts can draw cold air into the house, lowering the temperature by several degrees. This is an unpleasant problem to have at this time of year, and also means that it costs more to heat your home, as your heating needs to work harder to replace the lost warmth.
So why are your windows so draughty, and what can you do about it?
There are several reasons for that chilly draught coming in around your windows, and here are the most common ones:
1. Degraded Seals:
Window seals are usually made of rubber or silicone, which can wear out over time from the effects of cold winter weather, solar UV radiation, and general wear and tear. Unfortunately, as the seals crack, shrink, or lose their elasticity, they stop forming a tight barrier around your window, which allows cold air to pass through. This is especially common in older windows.
Solution: Inspect and replace any worn out seals. Run your hand around the edges of your window on a cold day or hold a candle near the frame (with care!) to see if the flame flickers. If there is a draft, you can replace the seals with a window sealant or self-adhesive foam strip. Remove the old damaged seal and clean the frame before applying the new seal. Make sure there is a snug and tight fit. Call a professional if your seals are difficult to access or are part of a sealed unit.
2. Poor Installation:
The cause of your draughty windows could date back to their installation. If windows aren’t installed correctly and professionally, the fitters might leave small gaps between the window frame and your surrounding wall. This can happen, for example, if the frame isn’t properly aligned, or the installer didn’t adequately seal the edges. These gaps allow air into your home, making the window draughty and increasing the risk of mould and damp around the window area. Poor installation can also increase pressure on the frame, which can shorten the lifespan of your windows.
Solution: Unfortunately, if the original installation was carried out poorly, you’ll probably need a professional window installer to remove and refit your window correctly to remove any gaps.
3. Single Glazed Windows:
Old-fashioned single pane windows are inherently colder and draughtier than double or triple glazed windows. Single glazed windows lack the insulating layer of gas between the panes found in modern windows, which reduces heat loss and keeps out cold air.
Solution: if you’ve still got single glazed windows in your home, swap them out as soon as possible with a more energy efficient solution. You’ll save money on heating and your home will be less draughty.
4. Cracks In The Glass:
Little gaps or cracks can develop in the glass due to accidental damage, vibrations (e.g. from power tools), corrosion from bird droppings (which are highly acidic) and car emissions, or even subsidence in the home. These cracks may not be immediately visible but can still let a lot of cold air and moisture into the house.
Solution: tiny cracks in your glass can sometimes be resolved with a clear sealant or filler, or even tape – although this can be unsightly. However, if your frame is structurally weak or the glass has developed a major crack, it’s usually best to replace the window.
5. Wooden Window Frames:
If you own an older property with wooden window frames, your windows could be draughty due to the wood becoming warped from damp and temperature fluctuations. As an organic material, wood expands and contracts quite significantly in response to outside temperatures. Over time, this can warp the frame out of its original shape, creating gaps between the window and the wall or frame.
Solution: sometimes, adding foam or rubber weatherstripping around an old wooden window frame can plug the gaps caused by warping. However, if your frame is severely warped or damaged, replacing the frame or upgrading your windows may be the best long-term solution. UPVC window frames are far less susceptible to this problem, and are better at keeping your home cosy and warm. You can still create a traditional feel with a nice wooden surround and windowsill.
Find Out More
Get in touch with Harvey’s Windows today to find out about our range of stylish modern double and triple glazed windows, and discover how they can keep your home draught-free and cosy all winter.
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