Ever notice a sudden chill in one room—or feel warm air sneaking in during the summer? If so, your windows might be to blame. Drafty windows don’t just mess with your comfort—they also force your HVAC system to work harder, driving up your energy bills.
So, what causes those annoying drafts? It could be anything from aging materials to cracked caulk or even weather-related warping. Whatever the culprit, one thing’s for sure: ignoring the issue can lead to bigger headaches down the line.
Let’s break down why windows get drafty—and what you can do to fix them for good.
Why Windows Fail and Usher Unwanted Drafts into Your Home
Worn Seals
Windows with more than one pane have seals between the layers of glass. These seals ensure inert gas stays between the panes to boost your home’s energy efficiency. Worn-out or broken seals create an avenue for outdoor air to pass through. If you see condensation between panes, you likely have a seal failure.
Solution: Your manufacturer’s warranty should cover seal failures.
Poor Installation
If your current windows weren’t installed properly, there could be gaps surrounding them that allow outdoor air to seep into your home. The installers may not have caulked or sealed them properly, making way for drafts to enter.
Solution: Take time to find the best window contractor before hiring someone to install your new windows. Read online reviews, check their BBB rating, view comments on Angi, ask to see their previous work, and request a detailed estimate. Make sure they install high-quality windows, and they have a good track record of satisfied customers!
Lack of Energy Efficiency
There are a variety of window types, and some are more energy-efficient than others. A lack of energy-efficient window features can allow air to trickle into your home, making it uncomfortable.
Solution: When you upgrade your windows, make energy efficiency features a top priority so you can enjoy indoor comfort and lower utilities throughout the year.
Aging Materials
When windows get old, they may warp if they have been exposed to moisture over the years. This makes them tough to open because they no longer fit into their frame correctly. They may have failing components that create openings and allow outdoor temperatures to make their way inside your home.
Solution: If your windows are old, it’s likely time to replace them—and we can help with that!
Inadequate Maintenance
If you don’t take proper care of your windows over the years, it can cause them to malfunction, allowing outdoor air into your house. Clean your window frames and windowpanes, add weatherstripping, and keep caulk in good condition. These are all essential ways to prevent windows from leaking and causing drafts.
Solution: Create a regular maintenance schedule to ensure each facet of your windows functions properly.
Cracked Caulking
Keep an eye on your window caulk as it can tend to deteriorate. Over time, it can crack and create gaps where outdoor air can enter your home.
Solution: This is simple to fix. Use high-quality caulk, and re-caulk your windows to keep uncomfortable drafts at bay.
Weather
Window drafts can be caused due to weather-related issues including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Drastic temperature fluctuations can cause windows to expand in warm weather and contract in the cold. If windows are made from low-quality material that contracts severely enough, cold breezes may make their way in through small gaps created between panes and frames, causing uncomfortable drafts.
Solution: When it’s time for replacements, investing in high-quality windows will help them stand up to the severe weather we can experience in the Memphis area.
Inadequate Insulation
If your home is old, it may not be properly insulated. When it’s not installed correctly, insulation can fall out of place, leaving the area around your windows exposed and allowing air to pass through.
Solution: Insulation can be assessed by removing your interior trim. Replace loose insulation to properly seal any places air could leak.
Stack Effect
As your home settles, air leaks may start to appear. Due to the “stack effect” (when hot air rises and escapes through your attic) as air leaves, it gets replaced by outside air and causes your house to feel drafty. When air leaks through openings around your windows, you’ll experience uncomfortable drafts. They may come through gaps behind your trim, caulking issues, or more.
Solution: If you’ve upgraded your caulking and insulation, but your windows are still allowing air to leak in, reach out to a reputable window contractor (like us!). It may be time for replacement windows.
Keys to Improve Indoor Comfort and Lower Heating and Cooling Costs
Comprehensive Home Energy Audit
A good way to deal with drafty windows is to have a comprehensive home energy audit. This includes a blower door test so you can find the cause of drafts. Diagnostic tools are used to inform you how to gain better indoor comfort.
Replace Window Locks
If windows don’t lock properly, outdoor air will seep into your home. Replacing window hardware can fix that.
Add Weatherstripping
This simple step can increase your home’s protection from drafts.
Caulk Gaps
Adding caulk to any gaps that open around your windows will bolster your protection against outdoor temperatures leaking in.
Replace Your Windows
New windows installed by a reputable contractor will boost your energy efficiency and prevent drafts.
Eliminate Unwanted Drafts with Gorgeous New Windows Installed by Our Skilled Craftsmen
Tired of the high-maintenance old and skyrocketing energy bills old windows cause? Get durable new windows that offer easy upkeep. Bring your home up to modern standards and codes, and future-proof your investment with replacement windows. Premium windows and perfectly fitted installation will help you save on utilities, preserve the life of your HVAC unit, and get the indoor comfort you deserve.
At Bluff City Exteriors, we install cost-effective, stylish vinyl windows by ProVia® that deliver exceptional energy efficiency, low maintenance, and expansive views, enhancing your quality of life while saving you money. Learn more about our quality window services.
