How Do We Make Our Windows Airtight?

Doesn’t it feel terrible and freaky when cold air seeps in from the small openings around your windows and doors, during those obnoxious winter months? Oh yes it does! Windows and doors become old and drafty and frames begin separating from their panes, with time, leading to air leakage. This is one of the prime contributors to the hefty energy bills on month ends. There are evidently two solutions to fix the problem: switching to air tight windows or resealing the existing ones. The former undeniably requires a bigger investment though it pays in the long run and the latter obviously is a consideration otherwise!

The Process:

Requirements for the task:

• A damp cloth 
• An ounce of Alcohol or solvent 
• A tube of silicone clear caulk   

Methodology:

• Make sure that the old caulk is removed completely from the work area. Use a utility knife to remove the residual caulk, if present at all. The application area need to be devoid of dust or any other materials to insure the application is full-proof. 
• Read instructions given on the wrapper carefully to understand how to cut open the tube. Acquaint yourself with its flow before using it, by trying it on a newspaper first. 
•  Apply the caulk, in a continuous motion, along the frame sides, joining both the pane and the frame-pane connect. Note that the application should be devoid of stops and starts. 
• Smoothen the caulk by dipping your fingers in the solvent and running it through the length of the application. Remove any excess application with the damp cloth. 
• Repeat the process with all the other windows and doors.   

An article on Windows Design for Indian Homes once suggested the use of clear latex as a better alternative to the silicone caulk because it is easier to clean (cleans with plain water) and is paint friendly (can be painted in the desired color). While whether proofing the windows and doors can be performed by homeowners themselves, opting for air tight windows stands to be the best solution offering long term durability and energy efficiency.

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