subject: Window and Door Problems, weather proofing [print this page] Window and Door Problems, weather proofing
Window and Door Problems
Windows and doors often leak. That's the simple facts. But, it is fairly easy to make repairs to minimize or eliminate those leaks, which will result in energy savings, as well as a more comfortable home environment. Air leaks around windows and doors can cause plenty of frustration, not to mention higher energy bills. Even gaps as small as 1/8-inch can create major air loss. Older windows and doors - or those that were not properly installed - are a major source of energy loss.If your home is fairly new, your windows and doors are less likely to leak than if your home is older. However, depending on particular practices followed during construction, even new homes can have leaky windows and doors.
Inspecting your Windows and Doors
Look around your window and door trim for cracks or other openings. Look closely at where the window and door frames meet the siding. Are there any open gaps where outside air and elements could enter the home?
Window Replacement
If your windows and doors were not installed properly or are not a good fit for the space, consider buying new ones. All the quick fixes in the world will not deliver as tight a seal as new windows and doors. New energy efficient windows may be the way to go if you are trying to seal very old and out of date windows.While this can be a sizable investment, it can payoff in reduced energy costs and improved home values.
Resealing Doors and Windows
If you feel leaks in your house, here's how to eliminate them. If you plan on chalking the doors and windows yourself you will need the following, available at most home centers and hardware stores. Exterior caulking, get one that is recommended for windows and doors; and if you plan to paint it, be sure it is the type that is paint able. Caulking gun, small putty knife, retractable razor-knife,damp cloth, and it is good to have a bucket of water close by and a few rags. Caulk minor cracks between the window or door and surrounding trim to seal air flow. Start by removing any existing loose or failing caulking, using a retractable razor-knife or putty knife. Then, trim tip and pierce new caulking tube and place into caulking gun. Place caulking gun over the gap or joint between the window or door frame and the house siding, and gently but steadily pull on the caulking gun handle to apply an even, smooth bead of caulking around the perimeter of the window or door and within the gap. Include below the window-sill or door threshold, if accessible. Smooth the caulking with the small putty knife so it fills the gap and is flush with the two sides of the gap.To finish, wipe the newly sealed joint very gently with the damp cloth, taking care not to pull any of the fresh caulking from the gap. The bead does not need to protrude, and is probably best if it doesn't. If you plan to paint the caulking, you must wait until it is dry, and be sure to use paint able caulking. Not all caulking is paint able and you prefer not to paint you can match the color of caulking you use to make it less noticeable. Weatherstripping for windows and doors,Weatherstripping can make a big difference in your windows and doors. You'll need to wash the area with soap and water, then apply foam weatherstripping by peeling off the paper back and sticking it in place. (Measure the various openings to determine how thick the material should be.) Add weatherstripping in these locations. Interior of the door jam - you want movable foam or rubber around the perimeter to seal the door when it closes. The door threshold should be sealed,( the space between the door and floor). Check the base of window and window well, and seal as needed. Large holes should be sealed by cutting wood strips to fit the gaps or by redoing the framing around the window and door. This is a home improvement project that requires some carpentry skills to make it all look right. If you lack those skills, look for a contractor or handyman service that can do the job.
