How To Reseal Drafty Windows To Keep Your Home Warm On Cold Winter Nights

When it turns cold outside, it's not uncommon to find cold drafts coming from your windows, especially if they are older. Drafty windows make your living space uncomfortable. Beyond this, drafty windows also cause other issues, like skyrocketing energy bills. Cold winter air seeping in through windows also makes it harder to heat your home and places undue stress on your heating system.

Fortunately, there are some easy, affordable ways to fix drafty windows. YouTube channel Everyday Workbench shows how to easily fix a window that is letting in cold air. The channel outlines three different solutions that are easy enough for most DIYers to tackle. These include using 3M Transparent Weather Sealing Tape, Seal 'N Peel caulk, and finally, caulk cord weather seal. Using these methods, you can keep your home temperate year-round, and stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer.

Weatherproofing, which includes resealing windows, is what you do to prevent outside air from creeping into your home. So, how do you know if your windows could use weatherproofing? Place your hand directly in front of the window. Do you notice cold air coming in through your windows even when the window is closed tightly? That's a major sign that you need to seal your window. Make sure you inspect all of your windows for drafts. Also, look for cracks and gaps around the window pane. If you can see through the cracks to the outside, it's a good sign you need to seal these windows. Make sure you check both the inside and outside of every window.

Over time, weatherstripping tends to break down. So, it's a good idea to also inspect your windows for missing or damaged weatherstripping. If you have insects coming in, that's another sign that it's time to reseal your windows. Sealing cracks and gaps around your windows can benefit you beyond cutting down on drafts. It also helps keep out pests and improves energy efficiency.

There are a few solutions for dealing with drafty windows. One is to seal up cracks and gaps with 3M Transparent Weather Sealing Tape or a similar sealing tape. Make sure you pick up tape that is specially designed to be used around windows and doors to keep drafts out. Cover up any gaps or cracks where you notice air coming in. Another method for sealing cracks is to use Seal 'N Peel caulk, a temporary caulk that peels away easily once it's no longer needed. Make sure to avoid traditional caulk or you'll glue your window closed permanently. You can find Seal 'N Peel at Amazon for less than $20. You should apply this caulk during the fall and remove it in the spring. Simply apply it to any openings and then remove it when you are ready.

The final way to fix drafty windows is to use caulk cord weather seal. This affordable weather-sealing product seals out moisture and cold air. You can find it at your local hardware store. This product is flexible, easy to install, and mildew-resistant. It's great for those harder-to-reach areas and fits snugly in openings. You can also use caulk cord weather seal to weatherproof doors. If these solutions don't work, and you still have cold air coming in, then it's a good idea to look into replacing or renovating your windows.