Need a New Window? Keep Drafts at Bay with These Tips
When it's cold outside, windows that allow drafts to enter the home can be a real pain. Not only do you have to deal with the unwanted cold air, but you have to spend more on your energy bill due to needing to turn up the thermostat in order to keep the home at a somewhat comfortable temperature. Luckily, you can improve your home's energy efficiency by replacing your old, draft windows with new, energy-efficient replacement windows. However, what do you do until you can get those new windows installed?
Tips for Keeping the Drafts at Bay
Until you can replace your windows, there are a few things that you can do to minimize the drafts. Here are four:
- Weather Stripping – Even if your windows already have weather stripping, there's a good chance that it is cracked and isn't up to par. Even if the stripping is okay, it doesn't hut to add an extra layer of for added protection against the cold.
- Caulking – You should also add a layer of caulking between the window frame and the window to help keep the cold air out and the warm air inside.
- Shades – If you have drafts coming in, you may want to consider purchasing a shade that specifically designed to help reduce drafts that enter the home. There are various styles to choose from so it wouldn't be hard to find one that matches your home's style.
- Curtains – If you can't get the shades (or even if you can), consider adding curtains to the windows. The thicker the curtain that you put up, the better draft protection that you'll receive. They may be a little bit more expensive, but it will be worth it in the end when they are able to reduce the drafts, which will then reduce your energy bill.
While all of the above tactics are great for reducing drafts in your home, they are not by any means a permanent solution. If you want to ensure that your energy bills are kept to a minimum and your drafts are eliminated, then you need to consider replacement windows. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a home inspection.