Late fall brings blustery winds and chilly nights that really test how energy-efficient our homes are. Windows area common source of heating or cooling loss, especially if you have an older home without any updated windows. The good news is that window technology has made a lot of advancements in the past years that can make a home more energy-efficient — and lose that annoying draft that makes you shiver during the holidays.
But what if you know you need a new window replacement but the timing isn’t right? During the holidays, it can be difficult to schedule repairs around visiting family and other obligations. To buy you time as you schedule a full repair, block out some blustery drafts with some quick DIY fixes. Though these solutions aren’t permanent, they will make your home more comfortable while you make plans to improve your home with new, energy-efficient windows.
Step 1: Clean your window.
Before you can administer any DIY repair, you need to clean the area so that any adhesives or sealants will stick to your window well. Any dirt or debris will make adhesives less effective, which will prompt you to reapply the material. After finishing this step, proceed with any of the options below.
Option 1: Apply Foam Weather Stripping
If you need to buy time for just a couple of weeks or months, then sealing the area with cheap foam weather stripping is a great option. This isn’t advised for people who want long-term fixes. Foam weather stripping only lasts a year or two at the most, but if you use it as a temporary solution, it is an economic and suitable option.
Apply the foam stripping inside the jamb and repeat for the other side. Close the window and press the strips in place. Repeat the process for the upper sash. Then, cut two more strips of weather stripping and apply one strip along the lower sash. Close the window, then apply the other strip along its top.
Option 2: Apply Vinyl or Silicone Sealant.
While foam weather stripping lasts around a year or two, vinyl or silicone sealant lasts around three years. This can be an option when you may have other financial obligations that may postpone a window replacement. Though it’s not as energy-efficient as replacing your windows, locking out some of the air flow will make your home more comfortable as you prepare for an official window replacement.
Option 3: Install Interior Storm Stoppers
Plexiglass or acrylic interior storm windows cost more than the other options on this list but are useful when you need extra support on very cold days. They also offer the best aesthetics in exchange for their higher cost. Interior storm windows fit into existing window frames and come in standard sizes, so they are easy to pop in and out. They are best used in winter or summer when you don’t want to open your windows at all.
Option 4: Install a “shrinky dink”
Plastic shrink film insulation kits area DIY favorite for homeowners looking for a quick solution. These are easy to install with double-sided tape and a hair dryer to shrink the film to make an air-tight seal. It’s safe to say that this may be the funnest DIY option on this list.
Option 5: Caulk Your Windows
Using rope caulk along the window frame can close small openings that are letting in uncomfortable drafts. Be sure to remove old caulking before applying new caulk. This is another temporary yet effective fix.
Option 6: Use Bubble Wrap
If you find yourself in dire straights, bubble wrap actually makes an excellent insulator for windows. Buy bubble wrap by the roll, cut it to size, the mount it on your window with double-sided tape. This is not a permanent solution by any means, but it can get you through a tough time.
Expert Window Installation, Replacement, & Repair in Northern Virginia
While DIY repairs can be effective, nothing compares to the results when you install new, energy-efficient windows. Noble Roofing’s expert contractors and design team can guide you toward the perfect product line and styles that are right for your home and budget. Let us work with you to make your home more attractive, modern, and energy-efficient.
No job is complete until you’re completely satisfied with the results. We’ll keep you informed throughout the installation process and involve you in all the major decisions we make about your home. We also have excellent payment plans and financing options for homeowners who need projects done right away.
Learn More About Installing New Windows Today
Noble Roofing is happy to serve Centreville and its surrounding cities in Northern Virginia. If you have any questions about installing windows or any other home improvement project, call us today at (703) 404-0505. From there, we can set up a free consultation to figure out what your home needs. You can also fill out our convenient online contact form and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.