Weatherproofing Windows for Energy Savings

Keeping your home comfortable during extreme temperatures often starts with your windows. Drafty windows not only make rooms chilly or too warm but can also send energy bills skyrocketing. Proper weatherproofing forms a crucial line of defense against outside elements, helping you save money and live more comfortably. Whether you’re gearing up for winter or preparing for a summer heat wave, sealing up your windows is a practical project for any homeowner. Here’s how Handydads recommends tackling this valuable DIY upgrade.

Project Snapshot

This project is perfect for homes of any age experiencing drafts, unwanted moisture, or high energy bills. It involves applying fresh weatherstripping, caulking gaps, and checking for window leaks. Most homes benefit from this simple maintenance task, leading to greater comfort and cost savings over time.

Tools and Materials

You’ll need a utility knife, caulking gun, tube of exterior grade caulk, measuring tape, weatherstripping (foam, rubber, or V strip), a putty knife, and some rags. Optionally, a hair dryer can help reveal drafts, and cleaning supplies are helpful for prepping surfaces. Handydads suggests investing in good quality caulk and weatherstripping for best durability.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by cleaning all window edges and checking where drafts may be coming through. Remove any old weatherstripping or peeling caulk around frames with a putty knife. Cut new strips of weatherstripping to fit the sides and bottom of each window, pressing them into place firmly for a tight seal. Apply a steady bead of caulk along outside and inside edges where gaps are visible, smoothing with a damp finger or rag. Allow everything to dry and double check seals with a candle or hairdryer to make sure drafts are gone.

From the Toolbox

A recent customer in a century old home called us for freezing living room drafts each winter. After weatherproofing their windows with fresh caulk and tight new strips, not only did the temperatures stabilize but their heating bills dropped noticeably. Sometimes a few hours of handiwork really do make all the difference.

Top 5 Mistakes

Neglecting to clean surfaces before applying new materials leads to poor adhesion. Using interior caulk outdoors (and vice versa) can result in early failure. Measuring weatherstripping incorrectly may leave gaps and wasted supplies. Rushing the curing time weakens your seal. Forgetting to check the window’s functionality after installation can cause issues opening or closing windows.

Tool and Material Recommendations

Look for 100 percent silicone caulk for outdoor sealing and a quality latex product for indoors. High density foam V strip is easy to install and durable for most windows. Invest in a sturdy caulking gun and measuring tape. For tricky leaks, consider a draft detector or infrared thermometer for pinpoint accuracy.

Quick Tips and Hacks

Check window seals each season for optimal performance. Keep extra weatherstripping handy for future quick fixes. Use a candle flame to detect drafts on blustery days. Apply caulk in mild, dry weather for best results. Don’t forget to label caulk tubes with the date for tracking shelf life.

Need a Hand?

If your home still feels drafty after a DIY try or you want professional grade results, reach out to Handydads. Our skilled handymen quickly secure your windows and help you save on energy for years to come.