One of the most common complaints regarding older homes is windows that don’t seal out cold air. Before you choose a weatherproofing method, try to determine how the air is getting in. Outside air can seep in around the window frame, around the glass panes in the sash, or around and between the sashes themselves. Depending on the source of the air intrusion, barriers can be installed to block the draft.

For air that enters the house around the outside of the window frame, a good quality silicone caulk is your best defense. Make sure that any old caulk has been removed, and that the area is clean and dry. Caulk all joints between the window frame and the surrounding structure. If the gap is wide or deep, you can fill much of the space with a piece of Styrofoam backer rod (Read more….)