Why do drafty windows happen? You could feel a chill coming from the windows in your home for many reasons. Often, it's related to the age of the windows. Over time, the seal around your windows begins to loosen and deteriorate.
When windows are first installed, the stripping and seal around the glass in the frame are usually solidly in place. But the heat, cold, and moisture of outdoors can cause window frames and seals to expand and contract.
Homes also have natural condensation in the air—humans, pets, and plants release moisture naturally throughout the day. Activities like cooking, showering, and laundry can increase the humidity in your home. The water condensation builds up on windows and eventually causes the seals to wear and deteriorate, allowing air to seep into your home.
If you’re wondering if your windows are getting drafts (or “air infiltration”), you can test them by dampening your hand with water and holding it around the outer perimeter of the window. If you feel cool air, you’re getting some drafts and leakage into your home.
So, what can be done about drafty windows? If you’re not ready to install new windows in your home, how do you fix drafty windows to keep your home’s temperatures consistent and comfortable?