How to Combat Drafty Window Frames in an Old House Without Breaking the Bank

Living in an older home often means dealing with a few quirks, especially when it comes to window frames. If you're experiencing drafts and are wary of spending too much on new windows, there are several cost-effective methods to improve insulation and seal gaps. This guide will explore various DIY solutions for keeping your old house warm and draft-free.

Identifying the Source of Drafts

Before diving into solutions, it's essential to locate where the air is infiltrating your home. Common culprits include gaps around the window frame and seals. Here’s a step-by-step approach to identifying and sealing these drafts:

Caulking the Outside of the Frame

Step 1: Caulk the Outside of the Frame

The first line of defense is caulk. Apply a weather-resistant caulk around the exterior of the window frame to seal any gaps. This is a relatively simple process that can make a significant difference in reducing drafts.

Reinsulating the Frame

Step 2: Reinsulate the Frame

If the caulking doesn’t provide enough warmth, consider adding more insulation to the frame. This involves adding weatherstripping or insulating foams. Weatherstripping, such as foam strips, can be applied around the seals to enhance airtightness. Alternatively, spray foam insulation can be used around the edges of the window frame, though careful consideration is needed to avoid damaging the window’s function.

Considering the Window Itself

Step 3: Consider the Window

If your windows are inherently inefficient, you may need to consider replacing them. However, before taking this drastic step, explore other options. Energy-efficient replacement windows are a significant investment, but they can be a worthwhile long-term solution.

DIY Solutions for Insulation

There are several DIY solutions you can try to insulate your windows without breaking the bank:

Draft Excluders and Plastic Sheets

Opt for Draft Excluders or Plastic Sheets

For temporary or more budget-friendly solutions, draft excluders or a sheet of plastic can be effective. Place a draft excluder beneath the bottom of the window to prevent cold air from entering. Alternatively, use a sheet of plastic to cover the entire window and secure it with clips or tape. This can help seal gaps and improve insulation.

Another cost-efficient method is to use thick cellular blinds and drapes. These can help reduce heat loss through the glass and provide an additional layer of insulation.

Sash Kits and Weatherstripping

Utilize Sash Kits for Double Hung Windows

For those with double hung windows, a sash kit can be a great solution. These kits replace both sashes and weatherstripping, creating more energy-efficient tilt-to-clean windows. Some companies offer services to replace weatherstripping and hardware without the need for complete replacement. This involves using a special router bit set-up to mill the edges of your existing sashes to fit new weatherstripping.

Insulating the Inside of the Window Frame

Add Inside Storm Windows

An alternative solution is to add inside storm windows. These are double-paned storm windows that mount on the inside of the window frame. This method works well for historic homes with leaded glass panes in antique metal windows. While caulking can help, inside storm windows made of shrinkable plastic film provide a better thermal barrier. These films are available at big box home centers and can be reapplied each season.

For those with roll-out windows, another effective method is to use metal surrounding the windows and add some plastic film and heavy curtains. This setup can be removed in summer and doesn’t require reuse, making it a practical solution for seasonal use.

Ultimately, the key to minimizing drafts in your old home lies in identifying the source of the air infiltration and applying appropriate solutions. Whether through DIY methods or professional services, you can enhance your home's insulation and save on heating costs without a major investment.