Draughty windows can cause a range of problems that can affect your home's comfort, energy efficiency, and overall well-being. Here are some common problems caused by draughty windows:
1. Energy Loss: Draughty windows allow air to infiltrate your home, resulting in significant energy loss. During colder months, cold air enters through the gaps, causing heat to escape and making it harder for your heating system to maintain a comfortable temperature. In warmer months, warm air can enter your home while cool air escapes, forcing your cooling system to work harder. This leads to increased energy consumption and higher utility bills.
2. Temperature Variations: Draughty windows can create temperature variations within your home. The cold air entering through the gaps can cause certain areas near the windows to feel colder than the rest of the room. This can result in discomfort and the need for additional heating in specific areas, leading to an imbalance in temperature distribution.
3. Drafts and Cold Spots: Draughty windows can cause noticeable drafts in your living space. These drafts can create cold spots near the windows, making it uncomfortable to sit or spend time in those areas. The constant flow of cool air can also make it challenging to maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature.
4. Condensation and Moisture: Draughty windows can contribute to moisture buildup and condensation. The cool air infiltrating your home meets warm indoor air, leading to condensation forming on the windows. Over time, this condensation can cause moisture-related issues, including water damage, mold growth, and potential health concerns.
5. Noise Infiltration: Gaps in draughty windows allow outside noise to enter your home more easily. This can be particularly disruptive if you live in a noisy neighborhood or near busy streets, impacting your peace and quiet indoors.
6. Reduced Indoor Air Quality: Draughty windows can introduce outdoor pollutants, dust, and allergens into your home. The gaps allow airborne particles to enter, compromising indoor air quality and potentially triggering allergies or respiratory issues for sensitive individuals.
7. Impact on Security: Draughty windows may compromise the security of your home. The gaps and poor sealing can make it easier for intruders to tamper with or force open the windows, increasing the risk of break-ins.
Addressing Draughty Windows:
Common Mis-leading Advice given and i Dont reccomend.
1. Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping around the window frames to create a tight seal and prevent air leakage.
2. Window Insulation Film: Install window insulation film to provide an additional layer of insulation and reduce drafts.
3. Draft Excluders: Use draft excluders or door sweeps to block drafts at the bottom of windows.
To address the problems caused by draughty windows, consider the following solutions:
1. Broken hinges: The most common fault is broken window hinges which vreate gaps between the frame and the sash. Replacing the hinges will close any gaps and stop th ewindow being draughty.
2. Caulking and Sealant: Use caulk or sealant to fill gaps and cracks in the window frames and sashes.
3. Glass Replacement: A failed unit or misted unit will cause a room to feel draughty or cold. Replacing the unit can be a cost effetive solutions rather than replacing the whole window frame.
4.. Window Replacement: In cases of severe damage or inefficiency, consider replacing old windows with energy-efficient models that provide better insulation and sealing. A last resort and can be costly.
By addressing draughty windows, you can improve energy efficiency, maintain a comfortable indoor environment, reduce noise infiltration, enhance security, and ensure better indoor air quality in your home.
Contact us now on 07734833635 or send a phot via whatsapp and we can provide free infromation on what the best soltuion for you is.