Leaky windows are a big problem in winter. Then we heat the apartment, but it is still cold in it. This not only wastes time, but also health and money. What can you do if the window is cold? This way you can check where the wind is blowing and seal the windows.

How can I check the tightness of the windows?

The easiest way to check the tightness of the windows in your home is to put your hand where the cold air could be flowing. To begin, move your hand near the junction of the window sash and frame. Pay special attention to the areas around the handle and hinges.

First, insert a piece of paper between the frame and the window sash. Then try to pull the paper out – if it resists, the window is sealing well. Otherwise, the window needs seal maintenance.

Using these simple procedures, you can effectively assess whether the windows in your home are leaking. If the tests are positive, the next step is to find the cause.

Leaky windows – causes

There can be several reasons for leaking windows. In the case of old or long-used models, the ingress of cold air may be caused by wear of materials. Gaskets can fall out, be loose, but they can also crumble, crack or bend. Such wear and tear occurs even faster if components made of poor quality materials are installed. Then the continuity of the seals is broken and the insulation is not sufficient.

Improper installation can also cause new windows to leak. The cause can be, for example, a bad fitting of the frame and wing components, assembly of the frame with manufacturing defects or insufficient sealing between the frame and the wall.

Bad window settings are also a frequent cause of problems. If you have the summer mode set to low temperatures, you have to expect an excessive flow of cold air. On the other hand, making the change is relatively easy.

Window settings – how to do it?

Adjusting your windows can completely change the temperature in your home, especially in the winter. It should be carried out in summer and in winter when the weather conditions are extreme. Due to low temperatures, the materials shrink and more pressure needs to be exerted on the frame. On the other hand, in the summer, when the thermometer shows higher values, everything expands, and without adjustment, the window can put too much pressure on the frame. This may result in damage in the future.

For winter, set the window to winter mode. The degree of adjustment is controlled using adjustment rollers, otherwise called pins. They are usually round, hexagonal or octagonal in shape. A comma or a dot should be marked on the element, which indicates the position of the window. Depending on the marking, you can recognize the winter mode by a dash parallel to the ground or a dot near the seal.

How to set the window to winter mode? You will need a customized key. In many cases, pliers or just your fingers will work just fine.

From the preset summer mode, turn the roller 180 degrees to the right. In this simple way, the frame is tightened and the window is sealed. Much less heat escapes and drafts are avoided.

How can I seal the windows myself?

Unfortunately, the setting does not always produce the expected results. In this case, it may be necessary to additionally seal the window. There are several ways to perform this procedure, and in most cases you can do it yourself without the help of a professional. Gaskets, special sealing tapes, foam or silicone are most often used for sealing.

New gaskets

Using gaskets is the simplest and most effective solution to problems with leaky windows. In this procedure, it is necessary to choose the correct size of gaskets. This should be done using the window’s warranty card or contract with the installation company. In these documents, there should be a mark that will help you when buying new gaskets.

Before assembly, the window frame and sashes are thoroughly cleaned. We will get rid of the old gasket and install a new one according to the supplied instructions. The seal should be located at the joint between the inner frame and the frame. The whole process is simple and the effect is immediately visible.

However, problems can arise with this method if our windows are equipped with seals that have been permanently pressed in. Their disassembly and assembly of new ones is more difficult in this case and it is worthwhile to approach another method.

Sealing tape

The sealing tape ensures that cold air does not penetrate into the apartment, but at the same time the window can “breathe” and prevents the accumulation of moisture and water vapor. Such tape is applied to the window frame and wall in places where there are gaps. This creates protection against adverse weather conditions.

Installing the sealing tape is very easy, especially if you purchase self-adhesive tape. Properly installed tape can maintain the airtightness of windows for up to several years.

Sealing foam

Using caulking foam to seal a window is a very versatile method that works on most windows. It fits well into the gaps and any excess can be easily removed.

You must use window sealing foam on both the exterior and interior of your home. Effectively blocks bad weather conditions, prevents the formation of mold and moisture. The product is easily applied with a spray gun, but it is important to remember that the foam greatly increases its volume. For this reason, you don’t need to use it as much. Another disadvantage is that it can leave marks.

Silicone

Silicone is recommended for sealing windows with small leaks. Compared to foam, it is less effective because it has to be applied in a really large amount to precisely block the cold.

The silicone is dripped directly into the area where the air enters. In the case of larger gaps, it can also be applied to the outside of the cavity. The transparent preparation used will be completely invisible and will not have a different visual effect.

This is how plastic windows are sealed. Your home will stay warm and your bills will be reduced