Are Double Hung Windows Drafty?
If you are thinking of replacing the old windows on your home in Simi Valley, CA, you have a lot of considerations to go over. You need to think about the material first. Do you want vinyl, wood, or another one of the popular options? You will also have to think about window style. Do you want double-hung, picture, casement, or another option? You may have heard rumors that double-hung windows are more drafty than other options. What’s the truth? What should you get?
What Makes Double Hung Windows Drafty?
Any window, especially older windows, can have drafts. Double-hung windows are more susceptible because they have more moving parts than other windows. If you have old single-pane windows, they can be drafty from the start. Sashes can shrink as double hung windows age and let cold air in around the frame. There are also items like gaskets, caulk, and weather stripping that can wear out and crack as it ages, and that prevents the window from closing tightly. If you have really old windows with muntins, the glazing can get brittle and fall away, which causes the windows to rattle when it’s windy outside.
Fixing Drafty Double Hung Windows
If you have old windows and you want to fix the issue, there are several repairs you can true. If you are able to get rid of the drafts, you can cut way down on your utility bills. There are many things you can try, such as:
-Weatherstripping
Remove old, cracked weatherstripping and give yourself a new, clean surface to install new strips.
-Caulking
The sticky caulk product can be added to any joint that has cracked so the air won’t leak in any longer.
-Shrink Film
If you aren’t going to open your windows during the winter months, you can put shrink film over them to get a better insulation layer. This isn’t usually a great solution in California since even the winter months bring nice weather at times.
Long Term Solutions
If you want to fix your old double-hung windows for good, the best thing to do is install new windows. Replacing the old windows with new ones will fix anything and everything that was insufficient. The good news is that new double-hung windows have new technology that allows them to seal drafts out of your home. You don’t have to worry about leaks, even though they are double-hung! You can also switch over to casement windows or other options if you see that as a better choice for your home.
If you are ready to get rid of old drafty windows, contact Quality Windows at 805-564-7600 for a free consultation. You can also stop by our showroom and ask about the new technology involved in double-hung windows Simi Valley, CA today. We’re located at 534 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103 and we’re happy to show you around and answer any questions you have about new windows, their installation, and everything in between.
