Your windows are not just there to provide your home a way to look outside. They are also in charge of letting in natural light and ventilation. 


They’re also supposed to keep outdoor air from getting in, but window drafts can keep them from performing efficiently. Today, our experts in window and roof replacement talk about drafts and how to deal with them.


What Are Drafts?

Window drafts are best described as “air leaks”. When fully closed, a window is supposed to form an airtight seal around its frame. If the window’s seal has small gaps, air from outside can seep in, causing drafts. If left unchecked, window drafts can lead to leaks. More importantly, it has a negative effect on your home’s HVAC system.


What Causes Drafts?

According to metal roofing and window experts, drafts are often caused by wear and tear on a window’s different components. Gaps show up where years of exposure to sun and moisture can cause sealants to crack or the frames to become warped. This is also why drafts tend to show up more often in older windows.


Spotting Drafts

It’s possible to check your windows for signs of drafts. Moisten your hand and move your hand over a window’s seams, along the sash frames and where glass panes meet the frame. If your hand passes over a draft, you will feel the airflow indicating the gap. Drafts can also be a cause of high energy consumption, so check your windows if you see your monthly bill is higher than normal.


Dealing With Drafts

Fixing drafts is possible, depending on the severity of the issues. Minor cases of drafts can be fixed by simply applying sealant over the small gap. For more severe cases or with older windows, window and vinyl siding experts recommend total window replacement, since fixing one draft won’t do much if new gaps show up in an old window later on.


Let us help you deal with window drafts in your home. Burr Roofing, Siding & Windows is a leading roofing, siding and window contractor in the area. You can call us at (203) 660-2009 or fill out this contact form to request a quote.