You can cover window drafts using various methods, ranging from simple temporary fixes to more permanent solutions. Here's a breakdown:
1. Weatherstripping:
- Repair or Replace: Check existing weatherstripping around the window frame. If it's cracked, worn, or missing, replace it. Numerous types are available, including foam, felt, and rubber.
- Add Weatherstripping: If your windows lack weatherstripping, adding it is an easy and effective way to seal gaps.
2. Window Draft Stoppers:
- Purchase or DIY: These are typically fabric tubes filled with insulating material (like rice, beans, or sand) placed along the windowsill. They block airflow at the bottom of the window. You can buy them or easily make your own.
3. Seal Cracks with Nail Polish:
- Small Cracks Only: For hairline cracks in the window frame or pane, clear nail polish can act as a temporary sealant. Apply a thin layer, allowing it to dry completely. This is best for very minor issues.
4. Window Film:
- Shrink Film: Window film kits are a cost-effective way to insulate windows. You apply the film to the interior window frame and then use a hairdryer to shrink it tight, creating an airtight barrier.
5. Reglaze Window Panes:
- For Old or Damaged Glazing: If the glazing (the putty or caulk that holds the glass in place) is cracked or missing, cold air can seep in. Reglazing involves removing the old glazing and replacing it with new. This is a more involved repair.
6. Interior Storm Windows or Inserts:
- Added Insulation: These are transparent panels that fit snugly inside your existing window frame, creating an additional layer of insulation. They are often made of acrylic or glass.
Summary Table:
| Method | Description | Difficulty | Cost | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weatherstripping | Sealing gaps around the window frame. | Easy | Low to Med | High |
| Window Draft Stoppers | Fabric tubes blocking airflow at the bottom of the window. | Easy | Low | Medium |
| Nail Polish (for cracks) | Sealing hairline cracks in the frame or pane. | Easy | Very Low | Low |
| Window Film | Creating an airtight barrier over the window. | Easy | Low | Medium to High |
| Reglazing | Replacing old or damaged glazing. | Medium | Med to High | High |
| Interior Storm Windows/Inserts | Adding an extra insulating layer inside the existing window frame. | Medium | Med to High | High |
Choose the method that best suits your budget, skill level, and the severity of the draft. For significant drafts, a combination of methods may be the most effective solution.
