Weatherproofing Tips for Windows and Doors

Keeping your home comfortable costs more every year. The HVAC system must work harder when old windows and doors allow outside air to seep in. Those tiny drafts might not seem like a big deal in the spring and fall, but they become noticeable during extreme summer and winter temperatures. With weatherproof windows and draft-proof doors, you’ll keep your home comfortable and lower your energy bills with less effort.

Signs You Need Weatherproofing

Before making any upgrades, decide if your windows and doors are underperforming. Here are the signs to watch for:

• Drafty interior when everything is shut: Airflow around the edges of closed windows points to poor sealing, cracked caulking, or failed weatherstripping.
• Light visible around door edges: At night, ask a helper to stand outside and shine a flashlight at your doors. If light can get in around the edges, so can air.
• Condensation between the panes: Moisture trapped inside double- or triple-pane windows means the seal has broken, reducing their insulating power significantly.
• Unexpected spikes in energy bills: If your HVAC system seems to be working overtime, newfound gaps around deteriorating frames might be to blame.
• Pest problems or water damage near windows: Insects and moisture often find their way in through small cracks. Left untreated, this can lead to wood rot, mold, and structural damage.

DIY Tips to Draft-Proof Your Home

You don’t need a full remodel to prevent window leaks. Many fixes can be done in a single weekend. Start with the basics, then layer in more insulation as needed. Here’s where to start.

Replace Old Weatherstripping

Peel-and-stick foam strips or V-seal help block drafts around windows and doors. Follow these steps:

1. Clean the application area thoroughly.
2. Measure the length you need and cut the strip.
3. Press the adhesive side firmly onto the frame.
4. Test for snug closure and adjust if necessary.
5. Check the weatherstripping again in a year and replace as needed.

Add a Door Sweep

A gap under your entry door lets in a surprising amount of air. Door sweeps offer a quick, affordable fix. Here’s how to install one:

1. Measure the door width.
2. Choose a metal, rubber, or brush-style sweep.
3. Screw or adhere it to the bottom edge.
4. Test for smooth opening and closing.

Seal Cracks with Caulk

Caulk is the best method to seal visible cracks around window and door frames. Application is simple:

1. Select silicone caulk for exterior surfaces and latex for interior trim.
2. For gaps as wide as your finger, insert a foam backer rod to fill the space.
3. Apply a smooth bead of caulk over the crack or backer rod.
4. Run a wet finger or smoothing tool over the caulk to create a clean finish.
5. Allow the caulk to dry fully.

Install Window Insulation Film

Clear plastic film creates an invisible barrier that blocks drafts. This seasonal fix works best in the winter and can be removed when spring arrives. Here’s how to apply it:

1. Clean the glass and frame.
2. Apply double-sided tape around the edge.
3. Press the film firmly onto the tape.
4. Apply heat from a hair dryer to shrink the film until tight.

Upgrade Your Window Coverings

Heavy drapes, layered curtains, and thermal-backed shades reduce heat loss through the glass. Follow these seasonal tips:

• In the winter, open your window coverings during the day to bring in free warmth and light. Close them at night to hold in the heat.
• In the summer, close your window coverings over south- and west-facing windows in the afternoon to block solar heat gain.

High-Impact Upgrades Worth Considering

If you notice failed window seals, water damage, rotting frames, or persistent air leaks, your DIY efforts won’t solve the core issue. For longer-lasting protection and better energy performance, try these upgrades:

• Add storm windows: These install over your existing windows to provide a buffer against wind, rain, and extreme temperatures. They improve insulation and reduce outside noise at a lower cost than replacing your windows.
• Upgrade to insulated exterior doors: Solid-core or foam-filled doors offer better thermal resistance than hollow-core models. Look for doors with factory-installed weatherstripping and energy-efficient seals.
• Replace failing windows: If your windows are outdated, damaged, or past their prime, replacement is the most effective solution. ProVia and Pella windows are built with performance glass, insulated frames, and tighter seals to maximize efficiency and comfort.

Why Homeowners Trust STL Windows Direct

If you’re looking for a long-term solution to drafty windows and doors, STL Windows Direct can help. We’re a family-owned company with over 50 years of experience serving St. Louis, Lake of the Ozarks, Jefferson City, and Columbia, MO. We source the same high-quality windows and doors as larger companies but do so directly from the factory. With no middleman, we can pass on significant savings to you. Ready to work with an award-winning company that always goes the extra mile? Contact us today for your free consultation.