Reliable Texas Window Services
Have you noticed a room that is warmer or cooler than the rest of your house? Chances are, you might have a window leak. It can be tricky to find where the leak is coming from in your window, but the solution is straightforward, and you can do it yourself.
Window World TX provides reliable window products across Texas. Here’s how to tell if your window is leaking air and how to repair it.
Why Should I Repair A Window Leak?
It’s important to have tight insulation in your home, especially during the summer and winter seasons. Window leaks allow cool air to escape on hot days and can release warm air on chilly days. This issue can cause noticeable temperature changes in rooms with existing leaks.
Furthermore, your energy bill can go up as you work to keep the temperature in your home at a comfortable level. You’ll want to find these leaks as soon as possible.
Tips For Finding Air Leaks
When searching for a leak, you can’t always rely just on your eyes to find the issue. As you look for the source of the issue, start by feeling the areas around the window for escaping air. Feel both inside and outside the home.
Light Test
If you still can’t find the leak, try a light test. During the day, turn off all lights inside of your home. Look at the bottom and sides of the window and see if daylight is leaking through anywhere.
Candle Test
If you are still having a hard time finding the air leak, try a candle test. Light a candle and trace the sides of your window from inside your home. If you notice the flame or smoke pulling, then that’s where your leak is.
You can also have someone outside with a leaf blower or hairdryer tracing the sides of the window. If you notice the candle flicker, then that’s where the air is coming through.
If you’re still having trouble finding the leak, then you should call a professional.
How To Repair A Window Leak
Now that you’ve found the leak, repairing it is a fairly straightforward DIY project. You’ll have to perform a different kind of repair depending on where the leak is coming from.
Sealing Air Leaks In The Window Frame And Grille
To repair the leaks from the window or frame, you will need caulk, a caulking gun and a putty knife.
- Begin by cleaning the area you’re going to caulk with soap and water for good adhesion.
- Remove any old caulk and paint using the putty knife.
- Wait for the area to dry before applying caulk.
- Hold the caulk gun at a forty-five-degree angle and apply the caulk to the leaking areas. Try to apply the caulk in one continuous stream. Make sure the caulk sticks to both sides of the leak.
- When filled, release the trigger before pulling the gun away to avoid a mess.
- If you notice the caulk has oozed out of the crack, use the putty knife to push it back in.
- If the caulk shrank while drying, feel free to apply more.
Sealing Air Leaks Between The Window Rail And Window Sill
To seal air leaks in the window railing or the window sill, you’ll need weatherstripping and a tape measure. Be sure to inspect how big the width of the gap is so you can buy appropriately sized weatherstripping.
- Start by cleaning the area with soap and water to make sure the weatherstripping sticks well.
- Allow the area to dry completely.
- Measure the window width and cut the weatherstripping accordingly.
- If the leak is coming from the railing, open the window and apply the weatherstripping to the railing area.
- If the leak is coming from the window sill, open the window and apply the weatherstrip to the bottom of the window sill.
- Close the window and use one of the above tests to see if the leak is fixed.
It’s important to remember that these are only temporary fixes. The root of the issue is likely the window itself. Luckily, Window World has you covered.
Trusted Home Window Installation
Window World TX sells only the finest windows and siding with unmatched lifetime warranties. We provide a range of options, such as double-hung windows, sliding windows and hurricane windows. We can also help you pick out siding, new gutters, doors and brickstone.
If you’re in San Antonio, New Braunfels or Corpus Christi, contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
