How to caulk windows for a warmer home this winter (2023)

Most of the heat loss from a window is through the gaps between the sash and the sash; Even small spaces can be big energy wasters. To determine if your windows have gaps, on a windy day, hold a piece of tissue paper or plastic wrap near the window and move it around. Anywhere you see movement (outside or in) there is significant leakage. If you have drafty windows, follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to seal your windows to save energy and money.

Before starting, doall necessary window repairsand its frame. Once completed, the first step in sealing windows is caulking, particularly on the outside. Also check that the outer glass mass has no gaps and is tight against the window. Where the nail polish fails, scrape it off and apply a new nail polish. Inside, check that the joint between the glass and the sheet is sealed with paint.

Range of time where two surfaces meet (the horizontals of asliding windowand the verticals of a casement or sash window) is simple. When two surfaces slide against each other (the verticals of a sash and the horizontals of a sash or sash), more precision is required. However, most caulking applications only take an hour or two to apply. We'll show you how to do both with our window caulking guide.

Before You Begin: Identify the Gaps in Windows

A double window has several potential leak points. The most noticeable ones are where the bottom of the top frame meets the top of the bottom frame, the frames slide against the post, and the bottom frame meets the bench. These gaps must be sealed with sealing strips. Gaps are also found outside the shell, at the bottom of the stool and on the apron.

types of weather protection

Nailed-on caulks are the more permanent option if you have a wooden window. Spring Bronze works well in rooms of uniform width. It is also the most attractive product. A vinyl tube gasket is a good option for sealing windows when the gap is large and uneven and appearance is not as important. Felt strips are a poor choice as they don't seal well and are not durable.

Self-adhesive adhesive tapes are easy to cut, making them the most convenient option. If you choose self-adhesive V-strip tape, make sure it is made of EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer), which will remain flexible for many years, even in extremely low temperatures.

Foam caulking strips are easy to apply and effectively fill in large, uneven gaps. However, it usually doesn't take long. Open-cell foam is better for post-compression recovery, but can only be used indoors. Closed-cell foam is weather resistant but short-lived.

For a quick but temporary seal, use string putty or a retractable plastic window kit that can be removed when the weather warms up.

How to attach weather strips to windows

Fix drafty windows with these simple tips.

what do you need

• measuring tape
• sheet metal scissors
• Scissors
• cartridge gun
• Hammer
• pierce
• pranks
• Clavitos
• seal
• foam insulation spray
• glass wool insulation
• rags
• Mineral turpentine (if needed)

How to Caulk Around a Window

Step 1 - Cut the seal tube

Cut the end of a tube of caulking with a sharp knife; A straight, clean cut will help ensure an even seal line. Some people prefer to cut at a sharp angle, while others prefer an almost straight cut. Cut near the tip to get a small drop of dough. Some pipe seals require breaking the seal across the tip with a long wire or nail.

Step 2 - Apply caulk to the window

It takes some experience to create a smooth layer of grout, so start grouting in an inconspicuous area. Get into a comfortable position and place your toe against the joint. Squeeze the trigger until the caulk comes off and continue squeezing as you move the tip along the joint.

Step 3: smooth dough

If the account looks good, leave it alone. If not, use your finger to smooth it out. While this tends to soil the sealant, it does ensure that the sealant adheres to the surface on both sides of the bead.

How to seal the top or bottom of a window

add string mass

Request additional weather protection in the cold monthscandle mass($ 7,the house store), which helps seal many window materials. To apply rope putty, unroll the rope putty and press it between the top of the lower reed and the bottom of the upper reed and onto the pulley where the reed meets the stops. The window cannot be opened while the donut putty is in place, so remove it in the spring.

Attach self-adhesive foam sealing strips

Another way to seal windowsself adhesive foam sealing strip(about $3,Lowes) is cheap and easy to install; just peel and stick. Test that you can close the window before applying a thick strip of foam to the top or bottom of a window. To apply self-adhesive foam grommets, first make sure the surface is clean and dry. Cut the foam with scissors or tin snips. Remove the liner and press the foam into place.

Self-adhesive foam works well for casement and sash windows. It can also be used to insulate the sides of windows. The foam is available in different thicknesses; test to ensure the window closes after application.

Install Spring Bronze Weatherstrips

While modern sealing techniques such as foam and adhesive are popular these days, the brass spring seal offers a long term solution. This technique requires more work (nails are needed), but it provides a solid window seal to prevent air from escaping your home.

To install, first cut the brass spring to fit the window with tin snips. Be careful not to bend the metal as you work, supporting the piece and driving small nails. Then drive in two or three nails, see if the window closes, then drive in the remaining nails until they are flush with the surface. If necessary, gently bend the brass with a putty knife when it's in place to fill in window gaps.

To attach the brass springs to the sides of a lower wing, lift the wing all the way up. Cut the bronze flush with the blade. Slide it down the wing as far as needed, snap it into place and close the wing to test.

Seal windows with vinyl pipes

vinyl tubular($ 4,the house store) is an economical solution for sealing large cracks. However, it can spoil the appearance of a window. To attach the tubular vinyl strips, use scissors to cut the strips. Then close the window and press down firmly on the vinyl while placing small nails or staples.

Attach shrink wrap

To seal a window for the winter only, buy aWindow covering shrink film kit($15 per pack of 10,Walmart). This window film blocks drafts during the cold months to helpKeep your home energy efficient. First, use scissors to cut the window film to size. Apply the provided double-sided tape around the window trim, then carefully tape the plastic to the tape. Use a hair dryer to shrink the plastic and make it taut.

How to seal the sides of windows

Many techniques for sealing the top and bottom of windows can also be used to prevent drafts on the sides of windows, including self-adhesive foam and spring bronze. Here are additional weathering techniques for the sides of windows.

Repair putty for glazing

If you notice that the glass mass in your window is cracked, missing in places, or peeling off the glass, you need to repair it. Use a putty knife or chisel to scrape off the loose caulk. Clean the area, apply some linseed oil and applyglass mass($ 11,the house store).

Install the V-Seal sealing tape

For a casement window or a sliding window,Time track with V-seal($ 4,the house store) can be attached to the side of the window frame or casement for a good seal. First make sure the surface is clean and dry. Cut the V strip to fit your window and hold it in place. Remove the paper while pressing the self-adhesive strip.

Seal the outer lining

If you can't see where the draft is coming from through the window, check the outside of your house. Exterior window trim may need repair. To seal windows, seal around all exterior and interior trim and under the sill.

How to insulate counterweight doors

If you installed replacement windows or sash, the cavity for the sash weights can be filled with insulation. Fill the opening by lightly stuffing it with fiberglass insulation or spray foam (the kind that doesn't swell is easier to control).

How to seal a windowpane

Cold winter air can enter your home through the grooves in the pulleys. Plastic lids are available, or you can press removable cord putty to fill in the gaps. Or just cover it with tape. Remove the seal or tape before opening the window in the spring.